Softball Game Preview: Mendota Aztecs vs. Avenal Buccaneers

The Mendota Aztecs will square off against the Avenal Buccaneers at 4:00 p.m. on Friday. Mendota has given up an average of 12.5 runs per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

Coalinga hit Mendota with a five-run second inning on Tuesday, which goes a long way in explaining the final result. The Aztecs lost 13-3 to the Horned Toads. The Aztecs have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

Meanwhile, after only two runs in their last matchup, Avenal made sure to put some runs up on the board against Firebaugh on Tuesday. The Buccaneers blew past the Eagles 12-3. The result was nothing new for the Buccaneers, who have now won 13 games by eight runs or more so far this season.

Khloe Nieto and Emma Morales made a splash while hitting and pitching. On the mound, Nieto struck out six batters over two innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit (and not a single walk). Meanwhile, Morales tossed three innings while giving up no earned runs or hits. That's the most strikeouts Nieto has posted since back in April of 2024. At the plate, Nieto got on base in two of her four plate appearances with four stolen bases, three RBI, and two runs, while Morales went 2-for-3 with three stolen bases and one run.

In other batting news, Natalia Ruiz was incredible, getting on base in three of her four plate appearances with three stolen bases, two runs, and one triple. Another player making a difference was Lauryn Lucero, who got on base in two of her four plate appearances with two stolen bases and three runs.

Mendota's defeat dropped their record down to 6-18. As for Avenal, their win bumped their record up to 16-6-1.

Mendota came up short against Avenal in their previous matchup two weeks ago, falling 8-3. Will the Aztecs have more luck at home instead of on the road? Come back here after the game to get an analysis of the match and other softball content.