Welch is 2-8 against Afton since March of 2017 but they'll have a chance to close the gap a little bit on Tuesday. Welch will square off against Afton at 4:00 p.m. Welch has given up an average of 12.2 runs per game this season, but Tuesday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Welch is headed into Tuesday's game looking for a big change in momentum after dropping their fourth straight game on Monday. They lost 13-3 to New Heights Christian Academy.
Dakota Bidwell made the most of his time at bat despite the final result and scored a run and stole two bases while going 2-for-3.
Meanwhile, Afton can bid farewell to their five-game losing streak thanks to their game on Monday. They never let Bluejacket get on the board and left with an 8-0 win.
Zander Mace was a major factor no matter where he played. On the mound, he tossed two innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit. He also tossed a walk, which is notable because Afton is 3-1 when he allows at most one walk, but 1-7 otherwise. Mace was also solid in the batter's box, scoring a run and stealing a base while going 1-for-3.
In other pitching news, Brady Robinson looked comfortable as he struck out six batters over two innings while giving up no earned runs or hits. The dominant performance also gave him a new career-low in walks (two).
Back at the plate, Tristan Owens was incredible, scoring two runs and stealing a base while going 2-for-2. Those two hits gave him a new career-high. Rick Barton was another key player, scoring a run and stealing two bases while going 2-for-2.
Afton always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .645. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Bluejacket only posted an OBP of .250.
Afton's record now sits at 4-8. As for Welch, their defeat dropped their record down to 1-8.
Tuesday's match might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Welch has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .487. However, it's not like Afton struggles in that department as they've averaged .498. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Welch suffered a grim 8-1 defeat to Afton when the teams last played back in April of 2024. Can Welch avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
