Softball Game Preview: Central Magnet vs. Blackman Blaze

Central Magnet will face off against the Blackman Blaze on Monday. Central Magnet is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 7 runs per game this season.

Central Magnet fell victim to Franklin County and their airtight pitching crew on Thursday. They fell just short of the Rebels by a score of 1-0. Having soared to a lofty 17 runs in the game before, Central Magnet's shutout was a dramatic turnaround.

Rachel Plondke was a force to be reckoned with on the mound despite the final result: she tossed five innings while giving up just one earned run off two hits.

At the plate, Central Magnet saw three different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Sophia Croasdaile, who went 2-for-4 with one double. That double was Croasdaile's first of the season.

Meanwhile, Blackman came up short against Eagleville on Thursday, falling 20-9. While the Blaze didn't get the win, they did start the game off strong, beating the Eagles 5-1 in the first period.

Alyssa Barber was cooking despite her team's loss, going 2-for-3 with one home run and three runs. She is on a roll when it comes to home runs, as she's now launched at least one in each of the last three games she's played. Another player making a difference was Sophia Compton, who scored two runs while getting on base in three of her four plate appearances.

Blackman now has a losing record of 2-3. As for Central Magnet, their defeat dropped their record down to 3-3.

Monday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Central Magnet has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .450. However, it's not like Blackman struggles in that department as they've averaged .473. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.

Central Magnet might still be hurting after the 10-0 loss they got from Blackman in their previous matchup back in April of 2024. Will Central Magnet have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.