Softball Game Preview: Manatee Hurricanes vs. North Port Bobcats

The Manatee Hurricanes will head out to challenge the North Port Bobcats at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Manatee has given up an average of 10.4 runs per game this season, but Tuesday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

Manatee lost 18-7 to Lemon Bay on Monday. The Hurricanes have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

Jenna Caldwell made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and scored three runs and stole three bases while going 3-for-4. Baelee Garland was another key player, scoring a run while going 3-for-4.

Meanwhile, North Port got the win against Lemon Bay on Thursday by a conclusive 10-1. The result was nothing new for the Bobcats, who have now won four matches by seven runs or more so far this season.

Hailey Perez was incredible, going 2-for-5 with one home run and three RBI. That home run was her first of the season. Another player making a difference was Lauren Boff, who scored two runs while going 3-for-5.

North Port kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 12 hits. They are a perfect 6-0 when they post 11 or more hits.

Manatee's defeat dropped their record down to 3-11. As for North Port, the win got them back to even at 6-6.

Fans could be in store for some top-tier slugging on Tuesday. Manatee hasn't had any problems when it comes to power this season, having averaged 0.5 home runs per game. However, it's not like North Port struggles in that department as they've been averaging an even more impressive 0.4 home runs. With so much power on both teams, it'll be down to the pitchers to keep the mound locked down.

Manatee couldn't quite get it done against North Port in their previous meeting back in March as they fell 9-4. Can the Hurricanes avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.