Softball Game Preview: Dayton Dust Devils vs. Fernley Vaqueros

Dayton hasn't had much luck against Fernley recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. The Dust Devils will be playing at home against the Vaqueros at 4:00 p.m. Dayton is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 7 runs per game this season.

Dayton is headed into Thursday's matchup looking for a big change in momentum after dropping their tenth straight game on Friday. They were two runs away from ending the streak, but they lost a 6-4 heartbreaker at the hands of Churchill County. Give some credit to the fans of both teams: the last three times they've met, the home team has come away the winner.

Dayton saw six different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was LaSade Conti, who scored a run while going 3-for-4. Paola Lopez was another, scoring a run while going 3-for-4.

Meanwhile, it was close, but on Saturday Fernley sidestepped Granite Bay for a 7-6 win.

The team relied heavily on Taylor Tollestrup, who went 2-for-5 with one triple, two RBI, and one run. Another player making a difference was Isabella Leija, who scored a run while going 1-for-2.

Fernley's victory ended a three-game drought on the road and puts them at 10-6. As for Dayton, they now have a losing record of 10-11.

Thursday's game might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Dayton has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .508. However, it's not like Fernley struggles in that department as they've averaged .459. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.

Dayton couldn't quite get it done against Fernley when the teams last played back in April of 2024 as they fell 4-0. Will the Dust Devils have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.