Softball Game Preview: Winter Haven Blue Devils vs. George Jenkins Eagles

The Winter Haven Blue Devils will face off against the George Jenkins Eagles at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday. Keep an eye on the score for this one: the two teams posted some lofty run totals in their previous games.

Winter Haven is on a roll after a high-stakes playoff matchup on Tuesday. They put the hurt on Haines City with a sharp 11-1 win. The victory continues a trend for the Blue Devils in their matchups with the Hornets: they've now won nine in a row.

The team relied heavily on Cameron Shelby, who got on base in three of her four plate appearances with three runs, one stolen base, and one double. That's the most runs she has posted since back in April of 2024. Isabella Velez also deserves some recognition as she scored her first run of the season.

Winter Haven always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .536. That's the best OBP they've posted all season.

George Jenkins came out on top against Ridge Community on Tuesday thanks in part to the team's impressive 12-run first inning. The Eagles were the clear victors by a 17-2 margin over the Bolts. The Eagles might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won ten contests by six runs or more this season.

Layla Hinojosa looked comfortable as she struck out six batters over two innings while giving up no earned runs or hits (and only one walk). She has been consistent: she hasn't given up more than one walk in five consecutive appearances.

On the hitting side, Reese Yungbluth was incredible, getting on base in all four of her plate appearances with four runs, two stolen bases, and two RBI. Another player making a difference was Audrey Gideon, who went 1-for-2 with one stolen base, two RBI, and one run.

Winter Haven's record now sits at 5-16. As for George Jenkins, their record is now 15-10.

Winter Haven might still be hurting after the 19-1 loss they got from George Jenkins in their previous meeting on April 8th. Can the Blue Devils avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.