Baseball Game Preview: Arcola Purple Riders vs. Central A & M Raiders

The Arcola Purple Riders are taking a road trip to take on the Central A & M Raiders at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Central A & M took a loss in their last match and will be looking to turn the tables on Arcola, who comes in off a win.

Last Saturday, Arcola made easy work of Oakwood and carried off a 9-3 victory. The win made it back-to-back victories for the Purple Riders.

Brevyn Whisman

Batters Struck Out

03/22/25 vs Oakwood	8
05/10/24 @ Unity Christian	6
05/04/24 vs Altamont	3
04/30/24 vs Argenta-Oreana	4
04/15/24 @ Cerro Gordo/Bement	6
04/01/24 @ Villa Grove	9

Brevyn Whisman was a major factor no matter where he played. He struck out eight batters over 3.2 innings while giving up just two earned (and one unearned) runs off two hits. That's the most strikeouts he has posted since back in April of 2024. He was also solid in the batter's box, scoring two runs and stealing a base while going 1-for-3.

In other pitching news, Brody Phillips looked comfortable as he scored a run and stole three bases while getting on base in three of his four plate appearances.

Back at the plate, the team relied heavily on DJ Stevens, who scored two runs and stole a base while going 1-for-3.

Meanwhile, Central A & M was not able to break out of their rough patch on Saturday as the team picked up their fourth straight defeat dating back to last season. They came up short against Neoga, falling 17-1.

Central A & M's loss dropped their record down to 0-3. As for Arcola, their record is now 2-0.

Arcola took their win against Central A & M in their previous meeting back in March of 2024 by a conclusive 15-5. The rematch might be a little tougher for Arcola since the squad won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.