The Marcellus Wildcats are taking a road trip to take on the Cassopolis Rangers at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday. Marcellus is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 9.4 runs per game this season.
On Monday, Marcellus earned a 10-6 victory over Comstock. The win continues a trend for the Wildcats in their matchups with the Colts: they've now won four in a row.
Cale Hackenberg was a major factor no matter where he played. He looked comfortable on the mound, striking out six batters over two innings while giving up no earned runs or hits (and only one walk). He has been consistent recently: he hasn't given up more than one hit in three consecutive appearances. He was also big at the plate, going 1-for-3 with two runs, one triple, and one stolen base.
In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Zade Tyska, who went a perfect 2-for-2 with two stolen bases, four RBI, and one run. That's the most stolen bases he has posted over his last 11 matchups. Leighton Osborn was another key player, going 1-for-3 with three stolen bases, two runs, and one RBI.
Marcellus hit smart and finished the game with only two strikeouts. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Comstock struck out ten times.
Meanwhile, Cassopolis was not able to break out of their rough patch on Monday as the team picked up their fourth straight loss. They took a 9-4 hit to the loss column at the hands of Decatur.
Lane Leach was cooking despite his team's loss, going a perfect 2-for-2 with two runs, one stolen base, and two RBI. Mj Conner also deserves some recognition as he got his first hit of the season.
Cassopolis' defeat dropped their record down to 4-8. As for Marcellus, their record now sits at 15-5.
Thursday's game might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Marcellus has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .476. However, it's not like Cassopolis struggles in that department as they've averaged .505. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Marcellus was able to grind out a solid victory over Cassopolis when the teams last played back in May of 2024, winning 13-8. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Wildcats since the team won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.
