Softball Game Preview: Venice Indians vs. Braden River Pirates

The Venice Indians will venture away from home to face off against the Braden River Pirates at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. Venice is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 8.2 runs per game this season.

Venice had to skate by with only a one-run margin when they last took the field, which might have inspired the nine-run drubbing they dealt North Port on Tuesday. Venice was the clear victors by an 11-2 margin over North Port. The victory continues a trend for the Indians in their matchups with the Bobcats: they've now won six in a row.

Jayde Neptune spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered two runs (both of which were unearned) on seven hits and racked up seven Ks. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up a single walk any time she's pitched this season.

Kiarra Evans

Runs Batted In (Career)

03/04/25 @ North Port	4
02/20/25 @ Lemon Bay	3
02/29/24 vs Lemon Bay	3
04/02/24 @ North Port	1
03/20/24 vs Parrish Community	1

On the hitting side, Kiarra Evans was incredible, going a perfect 2-for-2 with four RBI, one triple, and one double. Those four RBI gave her a new career-high. Molly Sullivan also deserves some recognition as she scored her first run of the season.

Venice was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .412. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as North Port only posted a batting average of .286.

Meanwhile, Braden River was not able to break out of their rough patch on Tuesday as the team picked up their fifth straight defeat. They lost 19-0 to Sarasota.

Venice's win bumped their record up to 4-1. As for Braden River, their loss dropped their record down to 1-5.

Thursday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Venice has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .443. However, it's not like Braden River struggles in that department as they've averaged .453. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.

Venice took their victory against Braden River in their previous matchup back in April of 2024 by a conclusive 17-6. The rematch might be a little tougher for Venice since the team won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.