Softball Game Preview: Westlake Wolverines vs. Patuxent Panthers

Westlake hasn't had much luck against Patuxent recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. The Wolverines will challenge the Panthers at 4:30 p.m. Westlake has given up an average of 19 runs per game this season, but Thursday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

Westlake is headed into Thursday's game looking for a big change in momentum after dropping their sixth straight game dating back to last season on Wednesday. They came up short against La Plata, falling 17-1.

Meanwhile, there's no place like home for Patuxent, who bounced back after a loss on the road on Friday. They walked away with an 11-7 win over McDonough on Wednesday. The Panthers' hitters stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most runs they've scored all season.

Hannah Bruno made a big impact no matter where she played. She struck out six batters over seven innings while giving up just two earned (and five unearned) runs off five hits. Bruno was also stellar in the batter's box, going a perfect 4-for-4 with two runs, two doubles, and one triple. That triple was her first of the season.

In other batting news, Rose Harrell was incredible, going 3-for-4 with one triple, one stolen base, and one run. She also hit a double, marking her first of the season. Another player making a difference was Kylie Coombs, who scored a run while getting on base in all four of her plate appearances.

Patuxent's first victory this season bumped their record up to 1-6. As for Westlake, their loss dropped their record down to 0-5.

Westlake suffered a grim 19-1 defeat to Patuxent in their previous meeting back in April of 2024. Can the Wolverines avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.