Banning hasn't had much luck against Carson recently, but that could start to change on Wednesday. The Pilots will host the Colts at 3:15 p.m. Banning has given up an average of 6.6 runs per game this season, but Wednesday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Banning managed to slip by Palos Verdes the last time these teams faced off, but didn't have those same answers this time around. The Pilots came up short against the Sea Kings on Monday, falling 16-6. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest loss the Pilots have suffered since March 21st.
Joliene Pina and Alina Argueta did some serious damage despite the final result: Pina went 2-for-3 with one triple, one run, and one RBI, while Argueta went 2-for-4 with two RBI and one run. Kali Sue was another key player, going 1-for-4 with two stolen bases and one RBI.
Narbonne typically has all the answers at home, but two weeks ago Carson proved too difficult a challenge. They put the hurt on the Gauchos with a sharp 18-1 win. The Colts might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won ten games by six runs or more this season.
Isabella Campos and Giselle Pantoja dominated on the mound. Campos pitched two innings while giving up no earned runs or hits, while Pantoja struck out eight batters over three innings while giving up just one earned run off one hit. With that strong performance, Pantoja is now averaging an impressive 5.2 strikeouts per game.
On the hitting side, Rylee Gardner and Ruby Grajeda did most of the damage at the plate: Gardner got on base in four of her five plate appearances with one home run, three runs, and three RBI, while Grajeda went 2-for-3 with four runs, two stolen bases, and three RBI. That's the most runs Grajeda has posted since back in April of 2024. The team also got some help courtesy of Anaiyah Popoalii, who got on base in three of her four plate appearances with three runs, one stolen base, and one RBI.
Carson kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 11 hits. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now got at least nine hits in four consecutive matchups.
Banning's defeat dropped their record down to 7-12. As for Carson, their victory bumped their record up to 14-1-1.
Wednesday's contest will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Banning hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .412. However, it's not like Carson struggles in that department as they've averaged .392. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Banning might still be hurting after the 9-1 loss they got from Carson in their previous meeting back in April of 2024. Will the Pilots have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.
