Softball Game Preview: Armstrong Trojans vs. Hoopeston Cornjerkers

Armstrong hasn't had much luck against Hoopeston recently, but that could start to change on Monday. The Trojans will welcome the Cornjerkers at 4:30 p.m.

On Friday, Armstrong didn't have quite enough to beat Milford and fell 5-4. The Trojans have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

Meanwhile, there's no place like home for Hoopeston, who bounced back after a loss on the road on Thursday. They were the clear victors by a 14-4 margin over Chrisman on Friday. The Cornjerkers might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won seven matchups by ten runs or more this season.

Maddie Barnes made a big impact while hitting and pitching. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out nine batters over six innings while giving up three earned (and one unearned) runs off six hits. Barnes was also stellar in the batter's box, going 3-for-4 with four runs, one stolen base, and one double.

In other batting news, Addyson Kelnhofer was incredible, going 2-for-4 with six RBI, one run, and one double. Those six RBI gave her a new career-high. Kinzley Bailey was another key player, going 1-for-3 with three runs, one stolen base, and one RBI.

Hoopeston's win bumped their record up to 8-11. As for Armstrong, their loss dropped their record down to 13-11.

Armstrong might still be hurting after the 9-2 defeat they got from Hoopeston when the teams last played back in May of 2024. Will the Trojans 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.