Softball Game Preview: North Jackson Chiefs vs. Blackman Blaze

The North Jackson Chiefs will take on the Blackman Blaze at 4:00 p.m. on Monday. North Jackson has given up an average of 6.6 runs per game this season, but Monday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

North Jackson lost 11-2 to Madison County on Thursday. The Chiefs have struggled against the Tigers recently, as the game was their sixth consecutive lost meeting.

North Jackson saw five different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Allison Ferguson, who scored a run while going 2-for-2. That's the most hits Ferguson has posted over her last eight games. Another was Peyton Malley, who scored a run while going 1-for-3.

Meanwhile, Blackman entered their tilt with Creek Wood on Friday with two consecutive wins, and they'll enter their next game with three. They came within a single run of losing the streak, but they secured a 13-12 W against the Red Hawks. Blackman's win was all the more impressive since the Red Hawks were averaging only 2.4 runs allowed on the season.

The team relied heavily on Alyssa Barber, who went 3-for-4 with one home run, five RBI, and three runs. She has been hot recently, having posted three or more RBI the last three times she's played. Addison O'Dell was another key player, scoring two runs and stealing two bases while going 1-for-3.

Blackman kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 11 hits. They are 4-2 when they post 11 or more hits.

North Jackson's defeat dropped their record down to 5-11. As for Blackman, they now have a winning record of 7-6.

Monday's contest will be a test for both teams' pitchers. North Jackson hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .335. However, it's not like Blackman struggles in that department as they've averaged .360. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other softball content.