Softball Game Preview: Gautier Gators vs. Wayne County War Eagles

Gautier hasn't had much luck against Wayne County recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. The Gators will face off against the War Eagles at 6:30 p.m. Gautier is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 6.5 runs per game this season.

Having struggled with seven defeats in a row, Gautier turned things around against Laurel on Tuesday. They blew past the Golden Tornadoes 17-5. The high-scoring effort was just what the Gators needed considering they were shut out in their previous matchup.

Madison Williams was a standout: she went 2-for-3 with two stolen bases, three RBI, and two runs. That's the most RBI she has posted since back in February. Sierra Smith was another key player, going a perfect 2-for-2 with two runs, one triple, and one stolen base.

Gautier hit smart and finished the game with only two strikeouts. The team has now struck out at least five batters in three consecutive games.

Meanwhile, Wayne County fell victim to Vancleave and their airtight pitching crew on Tuesday. They fell just short of the Bulldogs by a score of 1-0. The loss continues a trend for the War Eagles in their meetings with the Bulldogs: they've now lost three in a row.

Wayne County also got a good showing from Madison Stokley, who pitched one inning while giving up no earned runs or hits. Stokley has been nothing but reliable on the mound: she hasn't given up more than one earned run in six consecutive appearances.

Wayne County's defeat dropped their record down to 6-16-1. As for Gautier, their record now sits at 9-11.

Gautier suffered a grim 15-3 defeat to Wayne County in their previous matchup back in April of 2024. Can the Gators avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.