Softball Game Preview: Greenback Cherokees vs. Wartburg Central Bulldogs

Greenback and Wartburg Central are an even 3-3 against one another since May of 2017, but likely not for long. The Cherokees will head out to challenge the Bulldogs at 6:00 p.m. on Monday. Greenback has given up an average of 8.2 runs per game this season, but Monday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

The home team had won the previous four meetings between Greenback and Oakdale, and Oakdale kept the tradition alive. The Cherokees took an 11-8 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Eagles on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Wartburg Central posted their closest victory since May 22, 2024 on Wednesday. They won by a run and slipped past Oliver Springs 10-9.

Braylen Melton made a splash while hitting and pitching. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out nine batters over six innings while giving up just one earned (and one unearned) run off four hits. She has been consistent: she hasn't tossed less than five strikeouts in five consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, going 2-for-5 with two runs and one double.

In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Caleigh Crouch, who went 2-for-4 with two runs, two RBI, and one double. That's the most hits she has posted since back in March. Another player making a difference was Madi Aslinger, who went 3-for-5 with four RBI.

Wartburg Central's record is now 11-8. As for Greenback, their defeat dropped their record down to 8-8.