Softball Game Preview: Southwest Trojans vs. Mt. Vernon Mountaineers

Southwest is preparing for their first district matchup of the season on Tuesday. They will welcome the Mt. Vernon Mountaineers at 5:00 p.m. Southwest is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 7 runs per game this season.

Southwest fell victim to Ash Grove and their airtight pitching crew on Monday. They came up short against the Pirates, falling 15-0. The Trojans have struggled against the Pirates recently, as the game was their third consecutive lost meeting.

Meanwhile, Mt. Vernon faced Diamond in a battle between two of the state's top teams on Monday. The Mountaineers fell 14-11 to the Wildcats.

Emily Schubert was huge no matter where she played even without the win. On the mound, she tossed 3.2 innings while giving up no earned runs off two hits. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up a single walk in three consecutive appearances. She was also stellar in the batter's box, going 2-for-4 with one home run and one double. That home run was her first of the season.

In other batting news, Rae Downing made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and went 2-for-4 with one home run, three RBI, and one double. Another player making a difference was Molly Daniels, who scored three runs and stole a base while going 2-for-4.

Southwest's loss dropped their record down to 5-3. As for Mt. Vernon, their defeat dropped their record down to 9-3.

Tuesday's contest will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Southwest hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .341. However, it's not like Mt. Vernon struggles in that department as they've averaged .383. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.

Southwest suffered a grim 17-2 defeat to Mt. Vernon in their previous matchup back in May of 2023. Will the Trojans have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other softball content.