Softball Game Preview: Las Cruces Bulldawgs vs. Centennial Hawks

Las Cruces hasn't had much luck against Centennial recently, but that could start to change on Monday. The Bulldawgs will head out to square off against the Hawks at 7:00 p.m. The last three games Las Cruces has played have been within two runs, so don't be surprised if it's a close one.

Las Cruces is coming in fresh off a high-stakes matchup with another one of New Mexico's top teams: Alamogordo, who was ranked seventh at the time (Las Cruces was ranked fifth). The Bulldawgs fell just short of the Tigers by a score of 11-9 on Thursday. Surprisingly, this marked the Bulldawgs' third straight game in which the away team has come away the victor.

Zaysha Hawkins made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and went 1-for-3 with one home run, two runs, and one stolen base. Another player making a difference was Adriana Pena, who went 2-for-4 with one run and one double.

Meanwhile, Centennial strolled into their game on Thursday with a perfect record and they left with the same. They came within a single run of losing the streak, but they secured a 4-3 W against Organ Mountain. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest win the Hawks have posted since March 21st.

Centennial's victory was their 21st straight at home dating back to last season, which pushed their record up to 22-0. Those home wins came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 2.0 runs on average over those games. As for Las Cruces, their defeat dropped their record down to 16-6.

Monday's match might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Las Cruces has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .451. However, it's not like Centennial struggles in that department as they've averaged .544. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.

Las Cruces came up short against Centennial when the teams last played back in May of 2024, falling 6-1. Can the Bulldawgs avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.