The Rickover Naval Seadragons will head out to face off against the Von Steuben Panthers at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday. Both squads will be entering this one on the heels of a big victory.
Rickover Naval will roll into the game after a wild two-game stretch: they only put up one run on Friday, then bounced right back against Intrinsic Charter on Wednesday. The Seadragons put the hurt on the Mustangs with a sharp 25-13 victory.
Rickover Naval's win was truly a team effort as five different players contributed at least one hit. One of them was Isabella Gallardo, who got on base in five of her six plate appearances with four stolen bases, five runs, and six RBI. What's more, Gallardo posted two doubles, the most she's had since back in April of 2025. Another was Kayla Mateo, who got on base in four of her five plate appearances with seven stolen bases, two runs, and two RBI.
Rickover Naval always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .708. They are 5-1-2 when they post an OBP of .513 or better.
Meanwhile, Von Steuben put another one in the bag on Wednesday to keep their perfect season alive. They were the clear victors by a 19-1 margin over Mather.
Audrey Lebovitz was a major factor while hitting and pitching. She didn't allow a single earned run and allowed only one hit while striking out nine over four innings pitched. She has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than two hits in three consecutive appearances. She was also stellar in the batter's box, getting on base in three of her four plate appearances with four runs and two stolen bases.
In other batting news, Skye Rojek was incredible, going a perfect 2-for-2 with two stolen bases, four RBI, and two runs. Mina Krakovsky also deserves some recognition as she launched her first home run of the season.
Rickover Naval now has a winning record of 5-4-2. As for Von Steuben, their record is now 7-0.
Thursday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Rickover Naval has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .637. However, it's not like Von Steuben struggles in that department as they've averaged .638. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Rickover Naval might still be hurting after the 18-0 defeat they got from Von Steuben when the teams last played on April 13th. Can the Seadragons avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
