Softball Game Preview: Mattoon Greenwave vs. Jersey Panthers

The Mattoon Greenwave will face off against the Jersey Panthers at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday. The last four games Mattoon has played have been within two runs, so don't be surprised if it's a close one.

Mattoon took a loss when they played away from home on Thursday, but their home fans gave them all the motivation they needed on Saturday. They came out on top in a nail-biter against Effingham, sneaking past 10-9. The high-scoring effort was just what the Greenwave needed considering they were shut out in their previous matchup.

Micheala Starwalt was incredible, going 2-for-3 with one home run and three RBI. That's the most RBI she has posted since back in April. The team also got some help courtesy of Kynlee McGraw, who went 2-for-4 with one run, one double, and one RBI.

They weren't the only ones making solid contact: Mattoon kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 12 hits. They are 8-2 when they post 11 or more hits.

Triad hit Jersey with a six-run sixth inning on Saturday, which goes a long way in explaining the final result. The Panthers came up short against the Knights, falling 11-1. The pitching woes were uncharacteristic for the Panthers, who until this game were averaging 3.85 runs allowed.

Jersey's defeat dropped their record down to 17-10. As for Mattoon, their win ended a four-game drought at home and bumped them up to 10-13.

Wednesday's contest will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Mattoon hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .329. However, it's not like Jersey struggles in that department as they've averaged .323. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other softball content.