Softball Game Preview: Columbus International Lions vs. Whetstone Braves

Columbus International hasn't had much luck against Whetstone recently, but that could start to change on Wednesday. The Lions will welcome the Braves at 5:30 p.m. Given that the two teams suffered a loss in their last games, they both have a little extra motivation heading into this contest.

Columbus International came up short against Northland on Friday, falling 23-8.

Meanwhile, Whetstone was not able to break out of their rough patch on Monday as the team picked up their third straight defeat. They fell 9-5 to Centennial. Surprisingly, this marked the fourth straight game that the away team has come away the victor.

Jillian Nelson spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered four earned (and five unearned) runs on seven hits and racked up seven Ks. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than two walks in five consecutive appearances.

At the plate, Avery Bair made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and went 3-for-4 with two triples, three RBI, and one stolen base. Those triples marked the first that she hit this season. Another player making a difference was Gabby Milane, who scored a run while going 2-for-3.

Columbus International now has a losing record of 1-2. As for Whetstone, their loss was their first in the conference, dropping their conference record down to 3-1 and their overall record down to 3-4.

Columbus International suffered a grim 18-3 defeat to Whetstone in their previous meeting back in April of 2023. Will the Lions have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.