Softball Game Preview: Clarke Central Gladiators vs. Newton Rams + Official Tickets

The Clarke Central Gladiators are taking a road trip to challenge the Newton Rams at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday. Clarke Central is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 6.3 runs per game this season.

Clarke Central took a loss when they played away from home on Friday, but their home fans gave them all the motivation they needed on Tuesday. They came out on top against Alcovy by a score of 9-5.

Alex Ozuna spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered four earned (and one unearned) runs on eight hits.

On the hitting side, Adriana Ozuna was incredible, going 2-for-3 with three stolen bases and two runs. Gabby Campbell also deserves some recognition as she snagged her first stolen bases of the season.

Meanwhile, Newton was not able to break out of their rough patch on Tuesday as the team picked up their fourth straight defeat. They lost 15-1 to Archer.

Clarke Central's win was their first in the region, bumping their region record up to 1-11 and their overall record up to 8-12. As for Newton, their loss dropped their record down to 13-13.

The pitchers for both teams better look sharp on Wednesday as neither team is afraid to steal. Clarke Central has been swiping bases left and right this season, having averaged 4 stolen bases per game. However, it's not like Newton struggles in that department as they've been averaging 4 stolen bases. The only question left is which team can snag more.

Clarke Central skirted past Newton 16-15 in their previous meeting back in September of 2024. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Gladiators since the squad won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.