Baseball Game Preview: Lincoln Cardinals vs. Early Panthers

The Lincoln Cardinals will face off against the Early Panthers at 6:00 p.m. on Monday.

Lincoln's last matchup with Tipton could've gone either way, but unfortunately the same can't be said for the pair's contest on Tuesday. Lincoln came up short against Tipton, falling 11-3. The loss continues a trend for Lincoln in their meetings with Tipton: they've now lost seven in a row.

Meanwhile, it was a proper cat-fight when Early duked it out with Humansville on Friday. The Panthers were the clear victors by a 16-1 margin over the Tigers. The result was nothing new for the Panthers, who have now won nine matchups by six runs or more so far this season.

Luke Francka was a major factor no matter where he played. On the mound, he struck out six batters over three innings while giving up no earned runs off two hits (and not a single walk). He has been consistent recently: he hasn't given up more than one walk in three consecutive appearances. He was also solid in the batter's box, going 1-for-2 with one triple, one stolen base, and one run. That triple was his first of the season.

In other batting news, Early got a massive performance out of Michael Doyle, who got on base in all four of his plate appearances with four runs, three RBI, and two doubles. The Panthers are 9-1 when Doyle posts two or more runs, but 5-11 otherwise. Cash Graves was another key player, getting on base in all four of his plate appearances with four runs, two stolen bases, and one triple.

Early was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .375. They are a perfect 3-0 when they post a batting average of .375 or better.

Lincoln's defeat dropped their record down to 15-9. As for Early, their record now sits at 14-12.