Merritt Island Mustangs Softball is ranked 28th in the latest rankings released by Sports Illustrated, placing them in the middle of the pack among 33 teams listed. The team has a 9-12 record this season and is coming off a one-game winning streak. Their ranking is based on a combination of win-loss records, recent performance, and other metrics tracked by the publication. The Mustangs are one of 11 teams from Florida in the rankings, with several local rivals clustered near them in the standings. The rankings show a tight competition in the region, with teams like Mulberry (11-10) and Vanguard (8-8) just ahead of Merritt Island. Further down the list, Pompano Beach (7-13) and Hernando (8-8) are also within a few spots. Merritt Island coach Sarah Thompson has not commented publicly on the rankings but has focused on improving the team's consistency. The Mustangs' next game is scheduled for March 15 against the 24th-ranked Mulberry team. Local fans are keeping an eye on the team's progress as they aim to climb higher in the rankings. The full list of teams and their stats is available on Sports Illustrated's website.