Softball Game Preview: Rockford Auburn Knights vs. DeKalb Barbs

The Rockford Auburn Knights will venture away from home to square off against the DeKalb Barbs at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Rockford Auburn is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 7.6 runs per game this season.

Things were looking good for Rockford Auburn after they put the first run on the board on Wednesday, but unfortunately for them things went downhill from there. They fell just short of Hononegah by a score of 5-4. The Knights have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

Lily Parr was cooking despite her team's loss, going 3-for-4 with one home run and two runs.

Meanwhile, DeKalb fell victim to Dixon and their airtight pitching crew on Thursday. They took a 4-0 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Dukes & Duchesses. The game marked the first time this season in which the Barbs were not able to get on the board.

Jasmine Rodriguez spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered three earned (and one unearned) runs on eight hits and racked up seven Ks.

DeKalb has traveled a rocky road recently, having lost three of their last four contests. That's put a noticeable dent in their 16-15 record this season. As for Rockford Auburn, their defeat dropped their record down to 15-12.

DeKalb's pitching crew has a crucial task ahead of them: Rockford Auburn has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .435. It's a different story for DeKalb, though, as they've only averaged .356. Will they be able to contain Rockford Auburn's hitters?

Rockford Auburn came out on top in a nail-biter against DeKalb in their previous matchup back in May of 2024, sneaking past 5-4. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Knights since the team won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.