Softball Game Preview: DeKalb Barons vs. Columbia City Eagles

DeKalb is 2-7 against Columbia City since May of 2015 but they'll have a chance to close the gap a little bit on Monday. The Barons will take on the Eagles at 5:30 p.m.

Southwood hit DeKalb with a five-run seventh inning on Saturday, which goes a long way in explaining the final result. The Barons took an 8-4 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Knights.

Meanwhile, Columbia City beat Fort Wayne Northrop 5-2 on Friday. The victory made it back-to-back wins for the Eagles.

Emma Hiss made a splash no matter where she played. She didn't allow a single earned run while striking out seven over seven innings pitched. She has been consistent for a while: she hasn't given up more than two walks in 11 consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, going 2-for-3 with two runs, one stolen base, and one double.

In other batting news, Madelyn Brady was incredible, going 1-for-2 with one home run and three RBI.

DeKalb's defeat dropped their record down to 8-8. As for Columbia City, their record now sits at 11-3.

DeKalb's speedy runners might be the difference in Monday's match. The Barons have been swiping bases left and right this season, having averaged 4 stolen bases per game. It's a different story for Columbia City, though, as they've been averaging only 1 stolen bases. Will they be able to secure the bases, or will DeKalb continue to outrun the ball?

DeKalb might still be hurting after the 13-0 loss they got from Columbia City in their previous matchup back in April of 2024. Can the Barons avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.