The Thatcher Eagles will face off against the Blue Ridge Yellow Jackets at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday.
On Tuesday, Thatcher didn't have quite enough to beat Pusch Ridge Christian Academy and fell 4-3. The Eagles have struggled against the Lions recently, as the game was their fourth consecutive lost matchup.
Thatcher saw seven different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Erik Ebert, who went 1-for-2 with one RBI. Dylan Rynie also deserves some recognition as he hit his first double of the season.
Meanwhile, winning is always nice, but doing so behind a season-high score is even better (just ask Blue Ridge). They blew past Winslow 20-13 on Tuesday. Considering the Yellow Jackets have won six games by more than six runs this season, Tuesday's blowout was nothing new.
Brody Ellsworth was incredible, getting on base in all six of his plate appearances with four stolen bases, five runs, and one triple. With that strong performance, he is now averaging an impressive 1.1 stolen bases per game. Brenton Newcomb was another key player, getting on base in five of his six plate appearances with four RBI, two doubles, and one stolen base.
Blue Ridge kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 17 hits. They are a perfect 4-0 when they post 11 or more hits.
Blue Ridge's victory bumped their record up to 7-8. As for Thatcher, their defeat dropped their record down to 3-5.
The pitchers for both teams better look sharp on Thursday as neither team is afraid to steal. Thatcher has been swiping bases left and right this season, having averaged 2.9 stolen bases per game. However, it's not like Blue Ridge struggles in that department as they've been averaging an even more impressive 3.5 stolen bases. The only question left is which team can snag more.
Thatcher couldn't quite get it done against Blue Ridge when the teams last played back in March of 2024 as they fell 10-6. Will the Eagles have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other baseball content.
