Softball Game Preview: Murphy Panthers vs. St. Michael Catholic Cardinals

Murphy is 0-4 against St. Michael Catholic since February of 2024 but things could change on Thursday. A feisty cat fight will be fought as Murphy Panthers take on St. Michael Catholic Cardinals at 4:30 p.m. Murphy has given up an average of 12.5 runs per game this season, so hopefully the team got some pitching drills in this week.

Murphy fell victim to Saraland and their airtight pitching crew on Monday. They lost 15-0 to the Spartans. The Panthers just can't catch a break and have now endured three defeats in a row.

Meanwhile, winning is always nice, but doing so behind a season-high score is even better (just ask St. Michael Catholic). They put the hurt on McGill-Toolen with a sharp 19-4 win on Wednesday. The high-scoring effort was just what the Cardinals needed considering they were shut out in their previous match.

The team relied heavily on Aryia Blackmon, who went a perfect 3-for-3 with three runs, four RBI, and two doubles. She also put up a stolen base, which was her first of the season. Another player making a difference was Emma Marlowe, who scored two runs and stole Two bases. while going 2-for-3.

St. Michael Catholic always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .677. They are 3-1 when they post an OBP of .513 or better.

Murphy's loss dropped their record down to 1-3. As for St. Michael Catholic, their victory ended a four-game drought on the road dating back to last season and puts them at 4-5.