For the first time this season, Spalding will have a chance to prove themselves in a conference matchup on Thursday. They will host the Sandy Creek Patriots at 6:00 p.m. The timing is sure in Spalding's favor as the squad sits on four straight wins at home while Sandy Creek has been banged up by five consecutive losses on the road dating back to last season.
Spalding will roll into the contest after a wild two-game stretch: they only put up one run on Friday, then bounced right back against Morrow on Monday. Spalding was the clear victors by a 16-6 margin over Morrow.
The team relied heavily on Tyler Ball, who got on base in all four of his plate appearances with one home run, four RBI, and two runs. That home run was his first of the season. Dashan Gilbert was another key player, scoring three runs while going 2-for-4.
Spalding kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 13 hits. They are a perfect 3-0 when they post 11 or more hits.
Meanwhile, Sandy Creek can bid farewell to their nine-game losing streak thanks to their game on Monday. They blew past Langston Hughes 20-7. The Patriots' hitters stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most runs they've scored all season.
Grant Housley was a major factor while hitting and pitching. He looked comfortable on the mound, pitching two innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit. Housley was also stellar in the batter's box, going a perfect 3-for-3 with one home run, four RBI, and two runs. That's the most runs he has posted since back in April of 2024.
In other batting news, Preston Andrews was incredible, scoring three runs and stealing Three bases. while going 2-for-3. The dominant performance gave him a new career-high in stolen bases. The team also got some help courtesy of Isaiah Dorsey, who scored three runs and stole Two bases. while getting on base in all four of his plate appearances.
Sandy Creek's first win this season bumped their record up to 1-9-1. As for Spalding, their victory bumped their record up to 5-3.
Thursday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Spalding has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .439. However, it's not like Sandy Creek struggles in that department as they've averaged .438. 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 baseball content.
