Baseball Recap: Valley Takes a Loss

Valley extended their losing streak to 13 on Thursday, dropping their season record down to 0-13 in the process. They came up short against the Rancho Rams, falling 20-0. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against the Rams this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 7-0 on Tuesday.

As for Rancho, their record now sits at 12-16. Their hitters stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most runs they've scored all season.

For Rancho's part, William Patriquin was a major factor no matter where he played. He struck out six batters over three innings while giving up no earned runs or hits (and only one walk). Patriquin also tossed a walk, which is notable because Rancho is undefeated when he allows at most one walk, but 9-16 otherwise. Patriquin was also stellar in the batter's box, going a perfect 2-for-2 with three runs, one stolen base, and two RBI. Those three runs gave him a new career-high.

In other batting news, Mayson Au Young-Uwaine was incredible, getting on base in all three of his plate appearances with one home run, two stolen bases, and three runs. He is becoming a predictor of Rancho's success: when he posts at least two runs the team is undefeated (and 7-16 when he doesn't). Another player making a difference was Mayson Bumstead, who went 1-for-2 with two stolen bases, three runs, and one double.

Looking ahead, Valley will be playing at home against Pinecrest Academy Cadence at 3:30 p.m. on Monday. As for Rancho, they will head out on the road to square off against Cimarron-Memorial at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The Spartans have struggled to contain batters this season (they've allowed 10.45 runs per game on average), something the Rams will no doubt try to take advantage of.