Yep 430pm starts and just playing 30-35 games doesn't do the same for the "event" type of atmosphere football has (once a week, Friday night no school next day). Plus baseball has no other school involvement like football- no band, cheer, poms, etc. Not right or wrong, I do agree that baseball gets short stick. It's almost like come state playoffs, ihsa just wants to get it over with asap for summer.
Honestly I've wondered why some HS programs don't try a minor league approach to drum up more hype. Have bigger youth baseball events for games (get them out there, have kids take field with players). Have some in-between innings games for fans, enhance music and PA more. Try something.