Softball Game Preview: Pierce Bears vs. Durham Trojans

Pierce hasn't had much luck against Durham recently, but that could start to change on Friday. The Bears will venture away from home to take on the Trojans at 4:00 p.m. Pierce has given up an average of 12.2 runs per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

Pierce is coming in off a wild two-game stretch: after soaring to 16 runs on Friday, they were much more limited against Durham on Tuesday. They came up short against the Trojans, falling 20-1.

For Durham's part, Annalee Horn made a splash while hitting and pitching. She pitched three innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit. Horn was also solid in the batter's box, going 1-for-5 with two RBI and one run.

In other batting news, Clare Osbon was a standout: she went 3-for-4 with four runs, three doubles, and one stolen base. Those three hits gave her a new career-high. Ashley Spence was another key player, getting on base in three of her five plate appearances with three runs, three RBI, and one stolen base.

Durham always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .578. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Pierce only posted an OBP of .167.

Durham's defeat dropped their record down to 12-7. As for Pierce, their loss dropped their record down to 5-13.

Friday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Pierce has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .452. However, it's not like Durham struggles in that department as they've averaged .431. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.