The Forest Park Rangers saw their 2026 season come to an end Friday night, falling to Evansville Mater Dei 9-6 in the sectional semifinals. Despite the result, the Rangers fought until the final out. Mater Dei struck first in the opening inning, taking advantage of a passed ball and sac fly to score two runs and grab an early lead. Forest Park answered throughout the game and delivered its biggest response in the fourth inning. Trailing 3-1, the Rangers erupted for four runs in the bottom of the fourth to take control. Carter Jochem started the rally with an RBI single before Cohen Hoppenjans brought home a run with a groundout. Jared Burger followed with an RBI single, and Jaxon Lueken capped the inning with a run-scoring hit to give Forest Park a 5-3 advantage. The Wildcats answered in the fifth inning to tie the game before taking the lead for good in the sixth. A key triple helped fuel a four-run stretch that ultimately proved to be the difference. On the mound, Lueken gave the Rangers a strong start, working four innings and striking out four. Jochem battled in relief as Forest Park continued to fight against a talented Mater Dei lineup. While the scoreboard favored Mater Dei, the game was a reflection of the competitive spirit that carried the Rangers throughout the season. Forest Park never backed down, battling one of the area's top programs deep into the semifinal round of the state tournament. The loss closes the book on a memorable season that included a sectional-opening victory over Tell City, a Senior Day win over Jasper that snapped a streak dating back to 2016, and numerous signature performances throughout the spring. As the season comes to an end, Forest Park says goodbye to three outstanding seniors: Jared Burger, Grant Fleck, and Jaxon Lueken. Their impact on the program extends far beyond statistics. Through years of hard work, dedication, and leadership, they helped establish the standard for what it means to wear a Ranger uniform. They invested countless hours into the program, led by example, and played a major role in the growth and success of Forest Park baseball.