Softball Game Preview: Cypress Lake Panthers vs. Estero Wildcats

Cypress Lake is preparing for their first district matchup of the season on Thursday. A feisty cat fight will be fought as Cypress Lake Panthers face off against Estero Wildcats at 6:30 p.m. They have given up an average of 8 runs per game this season, so hopefully the team got some pitching drills in this week.

Cypress Lake is headed into Thursday's match looking for a big change in momentum after dropping their third straight game on Tuesday. They came up short against Mariner, falling 12-1. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest loss the Panthers have suffered against the Tritons since February 28, 2020.

Madison Henderson was cooking despite her team's loss, scoring a run and stealing Three bases. while getting on base in both of her plate appearances.

Meanwhile, winning is always nice, but doing so behind a season-high score is even better (just ask Estero). They were the clear victor by a 23-2 margin over Island Coast on Tuesday. The win continues a trend for the Wildcats in their matchups with the Gators: they've now won seven in a row.

Carlee Estrada was a standout: she went 2-for-3 with three RBI, two runs, and one triple. She also snagged a stolen base, marking her first of the season. Another player making a difference was Makenzie Baxter, who scored three runs and stole a base while going 2-for-3.

Estero was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .609. The last time their batting average was this high was back in April of 2024.

The victory got Estero back to even at 4-4. As for Cypress Lake, they now have a losing record of 2-3.

The pitchers for both teams better look sharp on Thursday as neither team is afraid to steal. Cypress Lake has been swiping bases left and right this season, having averaged 4.4 stolen bases per game. However, it's not like Estero struggles in that department as they've been averaging 5.2 stolen bases. The only question left is which team can snag more. Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.