Softball Game Preview: Independence 76ers vs. Hill Falcons

Independence and Hill are an even 5-5 against one another since May of 2019, but likely not for long. The 76ers are taking a road trip to square off against the Falcons at 4:00 p.m. on Friday. Independence will be looking to extend their current five-game winning streak.

Independence made up a huge gap compared to their last game against Mt. Pleasant, but they still couldn't quite topple them. The 76ers were the clear victors by a 26-7 margin over the Cardinals on Wednesday. The 76ers' hitters stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most runs they've scored all season.

Julieta Ramirez was a major factor while hitting and pitching. She looked comfortable on the mound, pitching two innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit. She has been consistent recently: she hasn't tossed less than five strikeouts in four consecutive appearances. She was even better at the plate, going 2-for-3 with four runs, two stolen bases, and four RBI.

Kayla Shem

Hits (Career)

04/02/25 vs Mt. Pleasant	4
03/19/25 @ James Lick	3
03/28/25 vs Gunderson	1
03/08/25 vs Gunderson	1
04/17/24 vs Yerba Buena	1

In other batting news, Kayla Shem was a standout: she went a perfect 4-for-4 with six RBI, three runs, and three doubles. Those four hits gave her a new career-high. Mackenzy Sauao was another key player, scoring three runs and stealing a base while going 2-for-4.

Independence kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 15 hits. They are a perfect 3-0 when they post 11 or more hits.

Meanwhile, Hill came up short against Gunderson on Wednesday, falling 15-5. The Falcons haven't had much luck with the Grizzlies recently, as the team has come up short the last six times they've met.

Independence pushed their record up to 5-3 with the victory, which was their third straight at home. Those home wins came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 15.0 runs over those games. As for Hill, their defeat dropped their record down to 1-4.

Independence suffered a grim 20-5 defeat to Hill in their previous meeting back in May of 2024. Can the 76ers avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.