Academic Magnet hasn't had much luck against Timberland recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. The Raptors are taking a road trip to square off against the Wolves at 6:00 p.m. Academic Magnet has given up an average of 15.7 runs per game this season, but Thursday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
On Friday, Academic Magnet needed a bit of extra time to put away Philip Simmons. They came out on top against the Iron Horses by a score of 17-14. The Raptors' hitters stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most runs they've scored all season.
Brianna Robinson made a splash no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out 11 batters over six innings while giving up just two earned (and five unearned) runs off seven hits. Robinson was also big at the plate, going 5-for-6 with four RBI and two doubles.
In other batting news, Isabella Costa was incredible, scoring four runs and stealing six bases while getting on base in five of her six plate appearances. She also brought in an RBI, marking her first of the season. Riley Henderson was another key player, scoring two runs and stealing two bases while going 2-for-6.
Academic Magnet kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 15 hits. That's the most hits they've managed all season.
Meanwhile, Timberland got the win against Lowcountry Leadership on Tuesday by a conclusive 13-3. The victory made it back-to-back wins for the Wolves.
Lainey Nichols looked comfortable as she tossed three innings while giving up just one earned run off three hits. She has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than two walks in four consecutive appearances.
On the hitting side, Timberland let Emilee Waters and Rylan Wadford run wild. Waters scored three runs and stole two bases while going 2-for-2, while Wadford scored three runs and stole three bases while going 2-for-2. Another player making a difference was Kaylee Waters, who went a perfect 2-for-2 with two stolen bases, four RBI, and one run.
Timberland picked up their first home win, bumping their record up to 2-3. As for Academic Magnet, their victory (their first of the season) made their record 1-5.
The pitchers for both teams better look sharp on Thursday as neither team is afraid to steal. Academic Magnet has been swiping bases left and right this season, having averaged 5.3 stolen bases per game. However, it's not like Timberland struggles in that department as they've been averaging 4 stolen bases. The only question left is which team can snag more.
Academic Magnet might still be hurting after the 17-8 defeat they got from Timberland in their previous meeting back in April of 2024. Can the Raptors avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
