The Midland Valley Mustangs will face off against the Dutch Fork Silver Foxes at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Midland Valley is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 8.2 runs per game this season.
Midland Valley will roll into the match after a wild two-game stretch: they only put up one run on Thursday, then bounced right back against Chapin on Monday. The Mustangs came out on top against the Eagles by a score of 10-5.
Larue Hicks spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered five earned runs on 11 hits. She has been consistent: she hasn't given up more than one walk in seven consecutive appearances.
At the plate, Mallorie Smith was incredible, going a perfect 4-for-4 with one home run, three runs, and two RBI. That's the most hits she has posted since back in March. The team also got some help courtesy of Jordan Nelson, who went 2-for-4 with three RBI, one run, and one double.
They weren't the only ones making solid contact: Midland Valley 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 eight hits in 11 consecutive games.
Meanwhile, Dutch Fork lost 15-5 to Gray Collegiate Academy on Tuesday. The Silver Foxes have struggled against the War Eagles recently, as the game was their fourth consecutive lost meeting.
Katie-Grace Hill was cooking despite her team's loss, going 2-for-3 with two runs, one stolen base, and one RBI. Another player making a difference was Ayanna Russell, who went a perfect 3-for-3 with one run.
Midland Valley is on a roll lately: they've won ten of their last 11 contests. That's provided a nice bump to their 17-8 record this season. The wins came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 3.5 runs on average over those games. As for Dutch Fork, their loss dropped their record down to 8-11.
Wednesday's match will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Midland Valley hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .354. However, it's not like Dutch Fork struggles in that department as they've averaged .315. 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.
