A.J. Ellender hasn't had much luck against South Lafourche recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. The Patriots will host the Tarpons at 4:00 p.m. A.J. Ellender has given up an average of 9.5 runs per game this season, but Thursday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
A.J. Ellender fell victim to Lutcher and their airtight pitching crew on Tuesday. They came up short against the Bulldogs, falling 15-0. The Patriots have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.
Meanwhile, South Lafourche entered their tilt with Morgan City on Tuesday with two consecutive wins, and they'll enter their next game with three. They were the clear victors by a 14-4 margin over the Tigers. The result was nothing new for the Tarpons, who have now won 12 matchups by six runs or more so far this season.
Julian Morales made a big impact no matter where he played. On the mound, he struck out six batters over 4.1 innings while giving up just two earned (and two unearned) runs off four hits. That's the most strikeouts he has posted since back in February. He was also stellar in the batter's box, going 1-for-2 with one home run and three RBI.
In other batting news, Jack Ledet was incredible, going 3-for-4 with six RBI, two triples, and three runs. That's the most RBI he has posted since back in March. Jacob Pierce was another key player, going 2-for-3 with two runs, one triple, and two RBI.
South Lafourche kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 11 hits. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Morgan City only managed six hits.
South Lafourche's win was their seventh straight at home, which pushed their record up to 17-8. Those home victories came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 12.3 runs over those games. As for A.J. Ellender, their loss dropped their record down to 7-16.
The pitchers for both teams better look sharp on Thursday as neither team is afraid to steal. A.J. Ellender has been swiping bases left and right this season, having averaged 3.5 stolen bases per game. However, it's not like South Lafourche struggles in that department as they've been averaging an even more impressive 3.5 stolen bases. The only question left is which team can snag more.
A.J. Ellender couldn't quite get it done against South Lafourche in their previous matchup back in April of 2024 as they fell 8-3. Can the Patriots avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
