Softball Game Preview: Oakland Patriots vs. Riverdale Warriors

For the second straight game, Oakland will face off against Riverdale. The Patriots are taking a road trip to square off against the Warriors at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The teams are on pretty different trajectories at the moment (Oakland has three straight victories, Riverdale has three straight defeats), but none of that matters once you're on the field.

Oakland had to skate by with only a two-run margin when they last took the field, which might have inspired the six-run drubbing they dealt Riverdale on Monday. The Patriots put the hurt on the Warriors with a sharp 8-2 win. The result was nothing new for the Patriots, who have now won 11 contests by six runs or more so far this season.

Taylor Minnick was a major factor no matter where she played. On the mound, she pitched seven innings while giving up just two earned runs off five hits. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than two walks in six consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, going 2-for-3 with two RBI.

In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Chloe Aaron, who went 3-for-4 with one home run, three RBI, and two runs. Jada Ellison was another key player, going 2-for-3 with two stolen bases and three runs.

Oakland hit smart and finished the game with only one strikeout. The team has now struck out at least two batters in three consecutive matches.

Oakland's victory was their third straight at home, which pushed their record up to 19-4-2. The home wins came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 8.7 runs over those games. As for Riverdale, their loss dropped their record down to 9-14.

Tuesday's game will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Oakland hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .361. However, it's not like Riverdale struggles in that department as they've averaged .363. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.