Lytle and Natalia are an even 5-5 against one another since February of 2020, but likely not for long. The Pirates will look to defend their home field on Friday against the Mustangs at 6:00 p.m. Lytle is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 9.7 runs per game this season.
Natalia will square off against a team with plenty of momentum: Lytle extended their winning streak to three on Tuesday. The Pirates put the hurt on Crystal City with a sharp 10-2 victory. Considering the Pirates have won eight contests by more than seven runs this season, Tuesday's blowout was nothing new.
Claire Canales
| 04/01/25 @ Crystal City | 1 |
| 03/25/25 @ Dilley | 2 |
| 03/18/25 @ Natalia | 2 |
| 03/10/25 @ Comfort | 2 |
| 03/01/25 @ Blanco | 1 |
Claire Canales spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered two runs (both of which were unearned) on six hits. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than two walks in five consecutive appearances.
At the plate, Giselle Esparza was incredible, going 3-for-4 with two stolen bases, three RBI, and two runs. What's more, she posted two doubles, the most she's had since back in March of 2024. The team also got some help courtesy of ADDISON CRIADO, who scored two runs while going 2-for-4.
Esparza wasn't the only one working in the hit department: Lytle kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 11 hits. The Pirates are a perfect 6-0 when they post 11 or more hits.
Meanwhile, Natalia posted their closest win since February 28th on Tuesday. They skirted past Hondo 4-3. The victory made it back-to-back wins for the Mustangs.
Natalia also let their pitcher toss all seven innings and she was also dialed-in: Arabella Gallegos gave up three runs (all of which were unearned) on seven hits.
On the hitting side, Natalia's victory was truly a team effort as four different players contributed at least one hit. One of them was Leyla Saenz, who scored a run while going 3-for-5.
Natalia's win bumped their record up to 17-6-1. As for Lytle, their victory bumped their record up to 10-8-1.
Friday's game will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Lytle hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .339. However, it's not like Natalia struggles in that department as they've averaged .376. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Lytle might still be hurting after the 11-5 defeat they got from Natalia when the teams last played two weeks ago. Will the Pirates have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other softball content.
