The Nelson County Governors will venture away from home to challenge the Appomattox County Raiders at 5:30 p.m. on Friday. Nelson County is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 6.8 runs per game this season.
On Wednesday, Nelson County earned a 13-9 win over William Campbell. The victory continues a trend for the Governors in their matchups with the Generals: they've now won eight in a row.
Lekota Shaver
| 05/07/25 vs William Campbell | 7 |
| 03/26/25 @ Amherst County | 5 |
| 04/19/24 @ Altavista | 5 |
| 04/01/25 vs Chatham | 2 |
| 03/19/25 vs Buffalo Gap | 2 |
Lekota Shaver was a major factor no matter where he played. On the mound, he struck out seven batters over three innings while giving up just one earned (and four unearned) runs off two hits. Those seven strikeouts gave him a new career-high. He was also stellar in the batter's box, going 2-for-3 with three runs, three RBI, and one double. He is becoming a predictor of Nelson County's success: when he posts at least two runs the team is undefeated (and 3-6 when he doesn't).
In other batting news, Jamison Craig was incredible, getting on base in all four of his plate appearances with two stolen bases and three runs. Those two stolen bases gave him a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Hank Simpson, who went 1-for-3 with one stolen base, two RBI, and one run.
Nelson County hit smart and finished the game with only two strikeouts. The team's really been improving in that area: they've now improved their strikeout total in four consecutive matches.
Meanwhile, Appomattox County unfortunately witnessed the end of their five-game winning streak on Wednesday. They took a 5-2 hit to the loss column at the hands of Altavista. Give some credit to the fans of both teams: the last five times they've met, the home team has come away the winner.
Appomattox County saw three different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Owen Chavis, who went 2-for-3 with one home run. That home run was Chavis' first of the season.
Appomattox County's defeat dropped their record down to 10-6. As for Nelson County, they now have a winning record of 7-6.
The batters for both teams will have to hit smart on Friday as both have some strikeout artists on the roster. Nelson County has been retiring batters left and right this season, having averaged 7.5 strikeouts per game. However, it's not like Appomattox County struggles in that department as they've been averaging 6.8 strikeouts. Considering how easily both teams rack up Ks, the hitters on both teams better bring their A-game into this one.
Nelson County skirted past Appomattox County 2-1 in their previous meeting back in April. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Governors since the team won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.
