Softball Game Preview: Bunnell Bulldogs vs. Branford Hornets

The Bunnell Bulldogs will square off against the Branford Hornets at 4:15 p.m. on Wednesday. Bunnell is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 6.8 runs per game this season.

Having struggled with four losses in a row, Bunnell turned things around against Notre Dame Prep on Tuesday. They were the clear victors by a 13-3 margin over the Lancers. The Bulldogs might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won seven matches by eight runs or more this season.

Leilani Navarro

Batters Struck Out

05/20/25 @ Notre Dame Prep	9
05/19/25 vs New Fairfield	8
05/15/25 @ Newtown	8
05/13/25 @ New Milford	9
05/07/25 @ Bethel	7
+ 3 more games

Leilani Navarro made a splash no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out nine batters over seven innings while giving up three earned runs off eight hits (and not a single walk). She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't tossed less than seven strikeouts in eight consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, going 5-for-6 with three runs, three RBI, and two doubles. That's the most runs she has posted since back in April.

In other batting news, Bella Caramanica was incredible, getting on base in all five of her plate appearances with two RBI and one run. Elisa Cabrera was another key player, getting on base in three of her five plate appearances with two runs and one RBI.

Bunnell kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 13 hits. They are a perfect 9-0 when they post 11 or more hits.

Meanwhile, Branford was not able to break out of their rough patch on Monday as the team picked up their fifth straight defeat. They lost 18-0 to Foran.

Bunnell now has a winning record of 10-9. As for Branford, their loss dropped their record down to 5-13.

Wednesday's game will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Bunnell hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .341. However, it's not like Branford struggles in that department as they've averaged .335. 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.