Softball Game Preview: Maryvale Prep Matador vs. Antelope Rams

The Maryvale Prep Matador will head out to take on the Antelope Rams at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday. Maryvale Prep is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 13.9 runs per game this season.

Maryvale Prep took a loss when they played away from home on Thursday, but their home fans gave them all the motivation they needed on Tuesday. They blew past San Pasqual Valley 32-10. The high-flying hitting performance was a huge turnaround for the Matador considering their two-run performance the matchup before.

Sophia Lopez was a standout: she got on base in all five of her plate appearances with three stolen bases, four runs, and one RBI. Natalie Heidmann was another key player, getting on base in all five of her plate appearances with two stolen bases, three runs, and two RBI.

Maryvale Prep always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .889. The last time their OBP was this high was was before the start of last season.

Meanwhile, Antelope lost 16-2 to Parker on Monday. The Rams have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

Karyme Arana made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and went a perfect 1-for-1 with two stolen bases and one run. The team also got some help courtesy of Katie Williams, who went a perfect 2-for-2 with one stolen base and one run.

With the win, Maryvale Prep broke their six-game losing streak and moved their record to 5-9. As for Antelope, their loss dropped their record down to 8-6.

Thursday's contest will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Maryvale Prep hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .478. However, it's not like Antelope struggles in that department as they've averaged .424. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.