Neosho hasn't had much luck against Ozark recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. The Wildcats will challenge the Tigers at 4:30 p.m. Neosho's pitching crew has only allowed four runs per game this season, so Ozark's hitters will have their work cut out for them.
Neosho's usually-dominant pitching crew will be looking to make up for Tuesday's struggle, when Kickapoo hitters got past them. The Wildcats lost 14-5 to the Chiefs on Tuesday. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest loss the Wildcats have suffered since April 29, 2024.
Neosho got a good showing from Cooper Charlton, who tossed one inning while giving up no earned runs off one hit.
At the plate, Neosho saw seven different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Drake Jennings, who scored two runs while going 2-for-3. Another was Brody Crane, who scored two runs while going 1-for-3.
Meanwhile, Ozark came up short against Springfield Catholic on Wednesday and fell 6-2.
Brock Benson was a force to be reckoned with on the mound despite the final result: he struck out six batters over 4.2 innings while giving up just two earned (and two unearned) runs off seven hits (and only one walk). What's more, he gave up only one walk, the fewest he's had since back in March.
Neosho suffered their first home defeat, dropping their record down to 13-2. As for Ozark, their loss ended a five-game streak of wins at home and dropped them to 13-4.
Thursday's game might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Neosho has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .528. However, it's not like Ozark struggles in that department as they've averaged .432. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Neosho came out on top in a nail-biter against Ozark when the teams last played back in April of 2024, sneaking past 5-3. Will the Wildcats repeat their success, or do the Tigers have a new game plan this time around? We'll find out soon enough.
