Baseball Recap: Leadership Comes Up Short

Leadership extended their losing streak to four on Wednesday, dropping their season record down to 2-5 in the process. They came up short against the Leadership Public Schools Richmond Pumas, falling 17-1. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against Leadership Public Schools Richmond this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 5-3 back in March.

As for Leadership Public Schools Richmond, the victory made it two in a row for them and bumps their season record up to 6-6. Their hitters stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most runs they've scored all season.

For Leadership Public Schools Richmond's part, Rene Lopez was a major factor no matter where he played. On the mound, he didn't allow a single earned run while striking out 14 over five innings pitched. Lopez is becoming a predictor of Leadership Public Schools Richmond's success: when he posts at least eight strikeouts the team is 5-2 (and 1-4 when he doesn't). Lopez was also stellar in the batter's box, going a perfect 3-for-3 with two stolen bases, four RBI, and two runs. He is on a roll when it comes to stolen bases, as he's now snagged at least one in each of the last four games he's played.

In other batting news, Mateo Velazquez was incredible, going a perfect 4-for-4 with seven RBI, two runs, and two doubles. Leadership Public Schools Richmond is undefeated when Velazquez posts two or more runs, but 3-6 otherwise. Brian Martinez was another key player, getting on base in three of his four plate appearances with three runs, one stolen base, and one double.

Looking ahead, Leadership will face off against KIPP King at 7:00 p.m. on May 2. As for Leadership Public Schools Richmond, they will look to defend their home field on Wednesday against Impact Academy of Arts & Technology at 4:00 p.m. The Spartans have struggled to contain batters this season (they've allowed 15.83 runs per game on average), something the Pumas will no doubt try to take advantage of.