Softball Game Preview: Gary West Side Cougars vs. Hammond Morton Governors

Gary West Side hasn't had much luck against Hammond Morton recently, but that could start to change on Monday. The Cougars will look to defend their home field against the Governors at 4:30 p.m.

Gary West Side came up short against River Forest on Saturday, falling 17-7.

Meanwhile, there's no place like home for Hammond Morton, who bounced back after a loss on the road two weeks ago. They blew past Merrillville 17-1 last Thursday. The Governors haven't had any issues with the Pirates recently, as the game was their sixth consecutive win against them.

Ei'Lani Herrera made a splash no matter where she played. On the mound, she struck out nine batters over five innings while giving up just one earned run off two hits (and only one walk). Those nine strikeouts gave her a new career-high. She was also big at the plate, scoring four runs and stealing four bases while getting on base in three of her four plate appearances.

In other batting news, Analiya Feliciano was incredible, going a perfect 3-for-3 with one home run, four stolen bases, and four runs. Branyla Goshay was another key player, scoring two runs and stealing a base while going 2-for-2.

Hammond Morton always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .515. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Merrillville only posted an OBP of .167.

Gary West Side's defeat dropped their record down to 0-2. As for Hammond Morton, the victory got them back to even at 1-1.

Gary West Side might still be hurting after the 16-2 loss they got from Hammond Morton in their previous matchup back in May of 2024. Will the Cougars have more luck at home instead of on the road? Come back here after the game to get an analysis of the match and other softball content.