Desert Heights Prep is 0-5 against Anthem Prep since March of 2023 but things could change on Friday. The Yote will venture away from home to face off against the Eagles at 3:00 p.m. Desert Heights Prep has given up an average of 17.3 runs per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Desert Heights Prep lost 20-5 to Bagdad on Thursday. The Yote have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.
Bayli Johnson was cooking despite her team's loss, scoring a run and stealing two bases while getting on base in both of her plate appearances. Another player making a difference was Kloi Von Tobel, who scored two runs while getting on base in two of her three plate appearances.
Meanwhile, winning is always nice, but doing so behind a season-high score is even better (just ask Anthem Prep). They blew past Maryvale Prep 25-2 on Wednesday. Considering the Eagles have won five matches by more than five runs this season, Wednesday's blowout was nothing new.
Grace Stillwell was a major factor while hitting and pitching. She pitched three innings while giving up no earned runs off two hits. What's more, she posted five strikeouts, the most she's had since back in March of 2024. She was even better at the plate, going 2-for-5 with one home run, five RBI, and three runs.
In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Bailey McCabe, who fired off six RBI, four runs, and four doubles while going 4-for-4. Those four doubles gave her a new career-high. Dylana Lee also deserves some recognition as she hit her first double of the season.
Anthem Prep kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 19 hits. That's the most hits they've managed all season.
Desert Heights Prep's loss dropped their record down to 2-8. As for Anthem Prep, they moved to 5-6 with that win, which also ended their four-game losing streak.
Friday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Desert Heights Prep has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .483. However, it's not like Anthem Prep struggles in that department as they've averaged .528. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Desert Heights Prep might still be hurting after the 20-1 defeat they got from Anthem Prep in their previous matchup back in March. Can the Yote avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
