Softball Game Preview: Tonawanda Timberwolves vs. Griffith Institute Griffins

The Tonawanda Timberwolves will be defending their home field for the first time this season when they go up against the Griffith Institute Griffins at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday.

On Wednesday, Tonawanda came up short against Kennedy and fell 7-2. The loss continues a trend for the Timberwolves in their meetings with the Bears: they've now lost five in a row.

Meanwhile, after only two runs in their last contest, Griffith Institute made sure to put some runs up on the board against Kennedy on April 7th. The Griffins were the clear victors by a 15-2 margin over the Bears. The matchup marked the Griffins' most dominant win of the season so far.

Olivia Mesch was a major factor while hitting and pitching. On the mound, she struck out nine batters over seven innings while giving up just two earned runs off six hits (and only one walk). She has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than two walks in three consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, getting on base in four of her five plate appearances with two runs, two RBI, and one double. That double was her first of the season.

In other batting news, Lilly Enser was a standout: she went 1-for-5 with two stolen bases, two runs, and one triple. That triple marked the first that she has hit this season. Kierstin Crone was another key player, getting on base in four of her five plate appearances with two runs, one double, and one RBI.

Tonawanda might still be hurting after the 17-8 defeat they got from Griffith Institute in their previous matchup back in April of 2024. Can the Timberwolves avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.