The Florence Gophers will take on the Valley Christian Trojans at 6:00 p.m. on Monday. Florence has given up an average of 9 runs per game this season, but Monday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Florence took a six-run defeat the last time they faced off against Coolidge, but this time they managed to keep it close and that made all the difference. The Gophers narrowly escaped with a win as the team sidled past the Bears 13-12. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest victory the Gophers have posted against the Bears since April 22, 2022.
Jocelyn Burris was incredible, going 3-for-5 with one home run and five RBI. That's the most hits she has posted since back in February of 2024. Harlie Hall was another key player, going 3-for-5 with three runs, one stolen base, and one RBI.
Florence was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .390. They are a perfect 5-0 when they post a batting average of .375 or better.
Meanwhile, Valley Christian owes their pitching crew a big pat on the back after their performance on Thursday. They blew past Crismon 7-0. The result was nothing new for the Trojans, who have now won 15 matchups by six runs or more so far this season.
The result came thanks to Makay Fraley's shutout, as she gave up just three hits and racked up 14 Ks. She has been consistent: she hasn't given up more than one earned run in six consecutive appearances.
On the hitting side, the team relied heavily on Maddy Harmon, who got on base in three of her four plate appearances with three runs, three RBI, and one triple. That triple was her first of the season. The team also got some help courtesy of Abrielle Jarles, who went 1-for-3 with two stolen bases and one RBI.
Valley Christian pushed their record up to 23-3-1 with the win, which was their 12th straight at home. Those home victories came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 1.0 run on average over those games. As for Florence, they have been performing well recently as they've won six of their last eight contests. That's provided a nice bump to their 9-14 record this season.
Florence couldn't quite get it done against Valley Christian in their previous meeting on April 3rd as they fell 4-0. Will the Gophers have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.
