Softball Game Preview: Las Plumas Thunderbirds vs. Chico Panthers

Las Plumas hasn't had much luck against Chico recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. The Thunderbirds will take on the Panthers at 2:00 p.m. The two teams have allowed few runs on average (Las Plumas 2.9, Chico 4.1) so any runs scored will be well earned.

Las Plumas heads in on the heels of a playoff contest on Tuesday. They lost 10-0 to Foothill. The pitching woes were uncharacteristic for the Thunderbirds, who until this matchup were averaging 2.86 runs allowed.

Meanwhile, Chico came up short against Pleasant Valley on Tuesday and fell 6-3.

Addi Hosier made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and got on base in all three of her plate appearances with two stolen bases and one run. She is on a roll when it comes to stolen bases, as she's now snagged at least one in each of the last five games she's played. Emily Babler also deserves some recognition as she hit her first triple of the season.

Chico's loss dropped their record down to 17-12. As for Las Plumas, their defeat dropped their record down to 24-4.

Thursday's game will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Las Plumas hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .397. However, it's not like Chico struggles in that department as they've averaged .332. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.

Las Plumas might still be hurting after the 9-2 loss they got from Chico when the teams last played back in April of 2023. Can the Thunderbirds avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.