Get ready for an exciting season of high school baseball as the CIF Southern Section has officially released its playoff pairings, shaking things up with a brand-new format in Division 1. This year, the top division will feature a pool-play structure before moving into single-game elimination, adding an extra layer of strategy and intensity to the postseason.

The action kicks off with some intriguing first-round matchups, including Santa Clarita Christian taking on Academy of Academic Excellence and Animo Leadership facing off against St. Pius X-St. Matthias Academy. These early games set the stage for what promises to be a thrilling journey toward the championships.

Mark your calendars for key dates: Second-round games in Divisions 2 through 9 are scheduled for May 19, while Division 1's third round also takes place that day. The quarterfinals across all divisions will be held on May 22, followed by semifinals on May 26. The ultimate showdowns—the finals—will take place on May 29 and 30, crowning champions in every division.

Whether you're a player, coach, or fan, this is the time to gear up and support your local teams. From the new pool-play format in Division 1 to the traditional bracket battles in other divisions, the Southern Section playoffs are packed with drama and talent. Stay tuned for scores, stories, and insights that make prep sports so captivating.