Softball Game Preview: Patton Panthers vs. R-S Central Hilltoppers

For the second straight game, Patton will face off against R-S Central. The Panthers will head out to challenge the Hilltoppers at 6:00 p.m. on Friday. Patton has given up an average of 9.8 runs per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

Patton fell victim to R-S Central and their airtight pitching crew on Tuesday. They came up short against the Hilltoppers, falling 12-0. The defeat continues a trend for the Panthers in their meetings with the Hilltoppers: they've now lost four in a row.

For R-S Central's part, the result came thanks to Olivia Harris's shutout, as she gave up just four hits and racked up 12 Ks. Harris has been nothing but reliable on the mound: she hasn't given up more than two walks in seven consecutive appearances.

At the plate, Madelyn Hasty was a standout: she went 3-for-4 with one home run, three runs, and two RBI. That's the most runs she has posted since back in February. The team also got some help courtesy of Alexis Nanney, who scored four runs and stole a base while going 2-for-4.

Hasty wasn't the only one working in the home run department: R-S Central lost a few balls and finished the game with two home runs. That's the most home runs they've managed all season.

Patton's loss dropped their record down to 4-8. As for R-S Central, they are on a roll lately: they've won six of their last eight games. That's provided a nice bump to their 8-3 record this season.

Friday's contest will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Patton hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .344. However, it's not like R-S Central struggles in that department as they've averaged .351. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other softball content.