Softball Game Preview: Downey Knights vs. Pitman Pride

Downey is on a three-game streak of home losses, and Pitman a four-game streak of away losses. However, someone's due for a change in luck on Tuesday. The Downey Knights will be playing in front of their home fans against the Pitman Pride at 4:00 p.m. Downey has given up an average of 14.4 runs per game this season, but Tuesday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

Downey lost 14-2 to Turlock on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Pitman had to endure a seven-game losing streak, but that streak is no more. They walked away with a 10-5 victory over Modesto on Thursday. The high-scoring performance was a welcome turnaround for the Pride's hitters, who had struggled in the games prior.

Elyssa Alcazar was a major factor no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out eight batters over seven innings while giving up just two earned (and three unearned) runs off ten hits (and only one walk). Those eight strikeouts gave her a new career-high. She was also big at the plate, scoring two runs and stealing a base while going 1-for-2.

In other batting news, Shelby Woods was a standout: she scored three runs and stole three bases while going 3-for-4. Those three hits gave her a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Keanna Haro, who went 3-for-4 with two stolen bases, two doubles, and two RBI.

Pitman kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 11 hits. They are 3-1 when they post 11 or more hits.

Pitman's win was their first in the league, bumping their league record up to 1-7 and their overall record up to 4-10. As for Downey, their loss dropped their record down to 1-19.

Downey skirted past Pitman 12-11 in their previous meeting back in March. Do the Knights have another victory up their sleeve, or will the Pride turn the tables on them? We'll have the answer soon enough.