The Hempfield Black Knights will head out to face off against the Northern York Polar Bears at 4:15 p.m. on Monday. Hempfield has given up an average of 7.7 runs per game this season, but Monday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Hempfield is headed into the game having just suffered their biggest defeat since April 29, 2024 on Friday. They came up short against Solanco, falling 16-2. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the Black Knights' biggest loss of the season was also their lowest-scoring.
Kali Peifer was cooking despite her team's loss, going 1-for-3 with one home run and two RBI.
Meanwhile, Northern York put another one in the bag on Wednesday to keep their perfect season alive. Their pitcher stepped up to hand Boiling Springs a 15-0 shutout. That 15 run margin sets a new team best for the Polar Bears this season.
Sammy Magee was a major factor while hitting and pitching. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out seven batters over three innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit (and not a single walk). She has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than one earned run in four consecutive appearances. She was also solid in the batter's box, scoring a run while going 2-for-2.
In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Hannah Keith, who scored three runs while going 3-for-3. She also put up two doubles, which were her first of the season. Another player making a difference was Izzy Hobby, who scored a run and stole two bases while going 3-for-3.
Northern York kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 14 hits. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Boiling Springs only managed one hit.
Hempfield has traveled a rocky road recently, having lost three of their last four matchups. That's put a noticeable dent in their 3-3 record this season. Northern York pushed their record up to 5-0 with the victory, which was their third straight at home.
Monday's contest will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Hempfield hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .392. However, it's not like Northern York struggles in that department as they've averaged .453. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Come back here after the game to get an analysis of the match and other softball content.
