Softball Game Preview: Springboro Panthers vs. Centerville Elks

For the second straight game, Springboro will face off against Centerville. The Panthers are taking a road trip to face off against the Elks at 5:00 p.m. on Friday. Springboro is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 8.3 runs per game this season.

Springboro fell victim to Centerville and their airtight pitching crew on Wednesday. They came up short against the Elks, falling 9-0. Having soared to a lofty 11 runs in the game before, the Panthers' shutout was a dramatic turnaround.

For Centerville's part, the result came thanks to Caitlyn Belcher's shutout, as she gave up just three hits.

On the hitting side, Riley Bakan and Kenley Bakan did most of the damage at the plate: Riley got on base in three of her four plate appearances with one home run and two RBI, while Kenley went a perfect 3-for-3 with three RBI and two runs. That's the most RBI Kenley has posted since back in March. Another player making a difference was Natalie Carr, who got on base in three of her five plate appearances with two runs.

Centerville hit smart and finished the game with only two strikeouts. The team has now struck out at least five batters in six consecutive games.

Centerville has been performing incredibly well recently as they've won 13 of their last 15 contests. That's provided a nice bump to their 19-6 record this season. Those victories came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 3.4 runs on average over those games. As for Springboro, their loss ended a five-game streak of wins at home and dropped them to 16-9.

Friday's matchup will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Springboro hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .351. However, it's not like Centerville struggles in that department as they've averaged .407. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.