Softball Game Preview: Wheaton Academy Warriors vs. Chicago Hope Academy

The Wheaton Academy Warriors will square off against Chicago Hope Academy at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday. Wheaton Academy is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 6.8 runs per game this season.

Wheaton Academy gave up the first runs on Wednesday, but they didn't let that get them down. They put the hurt on Chicago Christian with a sharp 14-4 win. The Warriors haven't had any issues with the Knights recently, as the game was their third consecutive victory against them.

The team relied heavily on Vivian Brummel, who scored three runs and stole two bases while getting on base in all three of her plate appearances. She also got a hit, marking her first of the season. Another player making a difference was Brianna Bohl, who scored two runs and stole a base while getting on base in all three of her plate appearances.

Wheaton Academy always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .667. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Chicago Christian only posted an OBP of .300.

Meanwhile, Chicago Hope Academy has relied on a stalwart pitcher averaging 3.38 runs allowed per game, but that average took a hit on Wednesday. They lost 10-0 to Bishop McNamara. The matchup marked the first time this year in which Chicago Hope Academy was not able to get on the board.

Chicago Hope Academy has been struggling recently as they've lost three of their last four contests. That's put a noticeable dent in their 5-3 record this season. As for Wheaton Academy, their win bumped their record up to 2-3.

Thursday's game might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Wheaton Academy has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .547. However, it's not like Chicago Hope Academy struggles in that department as they've averaged .570. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.

Everything went Wheaton Academy's way against Chicago Hope Academy when the teams last played back in April of 2024, as Wheaton Academy made off with a 14-3 victory. Do the Warriors have another victory up their sleeve, or will Chicago Hope Academy turn the tables on them? We'll have the answer soon enough.