Vernon hasn't had much luck against Cottondale recently, but that could start to change on Tuesday. The Jackets will look to defend their home field against the Hornets at 6:00 p.m. Vernon is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 9 runs per game this season.
Vernon took a six-run defeat the last time they faced off against Paxton, but this time they managed to keep it close and that made all the difference. The Jackets skirted past the Bobcats 5-3. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest win the Jackets have posted since March 16th.
Caiden Coltrane
| 04/06/26 vs Paxton | 2 |
| 04/02/26 @ Malone | 2 |
| 03/20/26 @ Bethlehem | 2 |
| 03/06/26 vs Graceville | 2 |
| 03/31/26 vs Ashford | 1 |
| + 7 more games |
The team relied heavily on Caiden Coltrane, who went 2-for-3 with two runs, one triple, and one double. He has become a key player for Vernon: the team is undefeated when he posts at least two runs, but 8-10 otherwise.
Meanwhile, Cottondale had already won three in a row (a stretch where they outscored their opponents by an average of 5 runs) and they went ahead and made it four on Monday. They never let the Indians get on the board and left with a 12-0 victory.
Carson Maloy was a standout: he went a perfect 2-for-2 with three runs, two doubles, and two RBI. Those two doubles gave him a new career-high. The team also got some help courtesy of Conner Barton, who went 2-for-4 with one home run and four RBI.
Cottondale always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .528. They are 4-1 when they post an OBP of .513 or better.
Vernon's win bumped their record up to 12-10. As for Cottondale, their victory bumped their record up to 10-11.
Tuesday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Vernon has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .445. However, it's not like Cottondale struggles in that department as they've averaged .433. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Vernon might still be hurting after the 15-5 loss they got from Cottondale when the teams last played two weeks ago. Will the Jackets have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.
