The 2025 AHSAA Class 5A baseball playoffs featured a compelling second-round matchup between the Madison Academy Mustangs and the Leeds Greenwave on April 25, 2025. Hosted at Madison Academy in Madison, AL, this best-of-three series brought together two teams with impressive records and aspirations for a deep postseason run.
Madison Academy Mustangs
Entering the series with a stellar 34-6 record, Madison Academy demonstrated dominance throughout the season. Their .850 win percentage and 10-1 region record underscored their consistent performances. The Mustangs showcased a potent offense, averaging 7.7 runs per game, and a formidable defense, allowing just 2.1 runs per game.
Leeds Greenwave
Leeds arrived with a commendable 25-12 record, reflecting a .676 win percentage and a 6-1 region record. Their balanced play was evident in their average of 6.8 runs scored per game and 4.0 runs allowed per game.
Madison Academy
The Mustangs entered the playoffs on a hot streak, winning their last five games, including a dominant 16-0 victory over Priceville and an 8-4 win against East Limestone. Their offense and pitching staff were firing on all cylinders, making them a formidable opponent.
Leeds
Leeds showcased resilience in their recent games, securing victories against Moody (1-0 and 2-1) and John Carroll Catholic (5-0). Despite a setback against Tuscaloosa Academy, they demonstrated the ability to bounce back and compete at a high level.
The playoff series was structured as a best-of-three, with Games 1 and 2 scheduled for 4:30 PM and 7:00 PM on April 25. If necessary, Game 3 was set for 1:00 PM on April 26, all hosted at Madison Academy.
Madison Academy
The Mustangs' strength lay in their balanced roster, combining a potent offense with reliable pitching. Their ability to score runs consistently and shut down opposing offenses made them a formidable opponent.
Leeds
Leeds relied on strategic pitching and timely hitting. Their recent performances highlighted their defensive capabilities, while their offensive output demonstrated their scoring potential.
Madison Academy
Leeds
While specific player statistics weren't detailed, Leeds' recent victories highlighted their collective effort and ability to perform under pressure.
This series exemplified the excitement and unpredictability of high school baseball playoffs. With both teams showcasing strong regular-season records and recent form, the matchup was anticipated to be closely contested.
A series win would propel the victor closer to a state title, while also serving as a testament to their season-long efforts and team cohesion.
The Madison Academy vs. Leeds playoff series was a highlight of the Alabama high school baseball postseason. With games hosted in Madison and significant attention from the high school baseball community, fans had ample opportunity to witness high-caliber baseball.
As the postseason progressed, both teams aimed to leave a lasting impression, showcasing the dedication and talent prevalent in Alabama high school baseball.
Team Overviews
Madison Academy Mustangs
Entering the series with a stellar 34-6 record, Madison Academy demonstrated dominance throughout the season. Their .850 win percentage and 10-1 region record underscored their consistent performances. The Mustangs showcased a potent offense, averaging 7.7 runs per game, and a formidable defense, allowing just 2.1 runs per game.
Leeds Greenwave
Leeds arrived with a commendable 25-12 record, reflecting a .676 win percentage and a 6-1 region record. Their balanced play was evident in their average of 6.8 runs scored per game and 4.0 runs allowed per game.
Recent Form and Key Moments
Madison Academy
The Mustangs entered the playoffs on a hot streak, winning their last five games, including a dominant 16-0 victory over Priceville and an 8-4 win against East Limestone. Their offense and pitching staff were firing on all cylinders, making them a formidable opponent.
Leeds
Leeds showcased resilience in their recent games, securing victories against Moody (1-0 and 2-1) and John Carroll Catholic (5-0). Despite a setback against Tuscaloosa Academy, they demonstrated the ability to bounce back and compete at a high level.
Game Context
The playoff series was structured as a best-of-three, with Games 1 and 2 scheduled for 4:30 PM and 7:00 PM on April 25. If necessary, Game 3 was set for 1:00 PM on April 26, all hosted at Madison Academy.
Tactical Breakdown
Madison Academy
The Mustangs' strength lay in their balanced roster, combining a potent offense with reliable pitching. Their ability to score runs consistently and shut down opposing offenses made them a formidable opponent.
Leeds
Leeds relied on strategic pitching and timely hitting. Their recent performances highlighted their defensive capabilities, while their offensive output demonstrated their scoring potential.
Players to Watch
Madison Academy
- Gavin Bowlin: Leading the team with a .500 batting average and a .600 on-base percentage, Bowlin was a consistent offensive threat.
- Conner Nelson: With a slugging percentage of .824, Nelson provided significant power in the lineup.
- Mason Johnson: Boasting a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage, Johnson anchored the defense.
- Gavin S. Howard: An undefeated pitcher, Howard's presence on the mound was a key asset for the Mustangs.
Leeds
While specific player statistics weren't detailed, Leeds' recent victories highlighted their collective effort and ability to perform under pressure.
The Bigger Picture
This series exemplified the excitement and unpredictability of high school baseball playoffs. With both teams showcasing strong regular-season records and recent form, the matchup was anticipated to be closely contested.
A series win would propel the victor closer to a state title, while also serving as a testament to their season-long efforts and team cohesion.
Final Thoughts
The Madison Academy vs. Leeds playoff series was a highlight of the Alabama high school baseball postseason. With games hosted in Madison and significant attention from the high school baseball community, fans had ample opportunity to witness high-caliber baseball.
As the postseason progressed, both teams aimed to leave a lasting impression, showcasing the dedication and talent prevalent in Alabama high school baseball.
