Baseball Game Preview: Wheeler Eagles vs. Hickory Flat Rebels

Wheeler hasn't had much luck against Hickory Flat recently, but that could start to change on Monday. The Eagles will welcome the Rebels at 6:00 p.m. Wheeler has given up an average of 7.8 runs per game this season, but Monday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

Wheeler came up short against Pine Grove on Friday, falling 15-2.

Caleb Brown was cooking despite his team's loss, going a perfect 2-for-2 with one run, one double, and one RBI. That double marked the first that he has hit this season.

Meanwhile, Hickory Flat can bid farewell to their four-game losing streak thanks to their game on Friday. They had just enough and edged out Potts Camp 5-4. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest victory the Rebels have posted against the Cardinals since February 25, 2021.

The team relied heavily on Liam Thrasher, who earned one run and three stolen bases. Hickory Flat is 5-1 when Thrasher posts two or more stolen bases, but 1-13 otherwise.

Hickory Flat's win bumped their record up to 6-14. As for Wheeler, their loss dropped their record down to 11-9.

Monday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Wheeler has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .438. However, it's not like Hickory Flat struggles in that department as they've averaged .484. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.

Wheeler got the 'W' when the teams last played back in February against Hickory Flat by a conclusive 20-4 score. Will the Eagles repeat their success, or do the Rebels have a new game plan this time around? We'll find out soon enough.