Softball Game Preview: Sierra Linda Bulldogs vs. Independence Patriots

For the second straight game, Sierra Linda will face off against Independence. The Bulldogs will take on the Patriots at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. Sierra Linda has given up an average of 13.5 runs per game this season, but Thursday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

Sierra Linda came up short against Independence on Tuesday, falling 16-3. The Bulldogs have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

For Independence's part, Mariana Perez Vargas and Nailea Lopez Flores made a big impact no matter where they played. Throwing, Perez Vargas pitched two innings while giving up no earned runs or hits. Meanwhile, Lopez Flores struck out ten batters over five innings while giving up just one earned (and two unearned) runs off two hits. Perez Vargas has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than one earned run in three consecutive appearances. At bat, Perez Vargas went 2-for-5 with one home run, four RBI, and two runs, while Lopez Flores went 1-for-4 with three runs, one stolen base, and two RBI. That's the most hits Perez Vargas has posted since back in March.

In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Genevieve De La Cruz, who got on base in three of her five plate appearances with two stolen bases, three runs, and one triple. The team also got some help courtesy of Serenity Mendez, who got on base in three of her five plate appearances with four runs.

The victory (which was Independence's third in a row) raised their record to 12-3. The wins came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 4.0 runs on average over those games. As for Sierra Linda, their loss dropped their record down to 2-12.

Thursday's match might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Sierra Linda has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .509. However, it's not like Independence struggles in that department as they've averaged .455. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.