Softball Game Preview: Arcanum Trojans vs. Bradford Railroaders

The Arcanum Trojans will head out to face off against the Bradford Railroaders at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday. Both squads will be entering this one on the heels of a big victory.

Arcanum came out on top against National Trail on Tuesday thanks in part to the team's impressive eight-run first inning. The Trojans' pitchers stepped up to hand the Blazers a 14-0 shutout. The victory continues a trend for the Trojans in their matchups with the Blazers: they've now won eight in a row.

Bradford came out on top against Preble Shawnee on Tuesday thanks in part to the team's impressive 13-run sixth inning. The Railroaders blew past the Arrows 19-7. The Railroaders' hitters stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most runs they've scored all season.

Vivian Harlemen made a big impact no matter where she played. She struck out eight batters over six innings while giving up just two earned (and five unearned) runs off seven hits. Harlemen was also solid in the batter's box, getting on base in four of her five plate appearances with one stolen base, two RBI, and one run.

In other batting news, Hayven Evans was a standout: she went 3-for-4 with three runs, one triple, and two RBI. Lilly Canan was another key player, going 3-for-4 with two runs, one stolen base, and two RBI.

Bradford was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .485. They are 5-2 when they post a batting average of .375 or better.

Arcanum's record is now 12-6. As for Bradford, their win ended a four-game drought on the road and puts them at 8-10.

Arcanum took their victory against Bradford in their previous meeting back in April of 2024 by a conclusive 8-0 score. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Trojans since the team won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.