Softball Game Preview: Commerce Red Raiders vs. Springfield Renaissance

Commerce is 9-1 against Springfield Renaissance since April of 2019 and they'll have a chance to extend that dominance on Friday. The Red Raiders will head out to challenge Springfield Renaissance at 4:00 p.m. Commerce is coming into the matchup on a five-game losing streak.

Commerce fell victim to Pathfinder RVT and their airtight pitching crew on Thursday. They came up short against the Pioneers, falling 13-0. The home team had taken home the W every time these teams have met since May 9, 2023, but that streak is no more.

Meanwhile, Springfield Renaissance lost 35-4 to Pope Francis Prep on Thursday. Springfield Renaissance hasn't had much luck with Pope Francis Prep recently, as the team has come up short the last six times they've met.

Springfield Renaissance saw three different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Jocelyn Pena, who went a perfect 1-for-1 with two stolen bases and two runs. Pena is on a roll when it comes to stolen bases, as she's now snagged at least one in each of the last six games she's played. Another was Mariah Dandridge, who got on base in all three of her plate appearances with one run.

Commerce's loss dropped their record down to 3-7. As for Springfield Renaissance, their defeat dropped their record down to an identical 3-7.

The pitchers for both teams better look sharp on Friday as neither team is afraid to steal. Commerce has been swiping bases left and right this season, having averaged 5.9 stolen bases per game. However, it's not like Springfield Renaissance struggles in that department as they've been averaging an even more impressive 13.1 stolen bases. The only question left is which team can snag more.

Commerce took their win against Springfield Renaissance in their previous matchup back in April by a conclusive 19-10 score. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Red Raiders since the squad won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.