Cardinal Stritch hasn't had much luck against Emmanuel Christian recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. The Cardinals will be playing in front of their home fans against the Warriors at 5:00 p.m. Cardinal Stritch has given up an average of 18.8 runs per game this season, but Thursday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Cardinal Stritch is headed into Thursday's game looking for a big change in momentum after dropping their fourth straight game on Saturday. They lost 23-1 to Allen East. Having soared to a lofty 11 runs in the game before, the Cardinals couldn't push the score so high this time.
Meanwhile, Emmanuel Christian earned a 9-6 victory over Toledo Christian on Wednesday. The Warriors haven't had any issues with the Eagles recently, as the game was their ninth consecutive win against them.
Maggie Woodward was a major factor no matter where she played. She struck out nine batters over seven innings while giving up just two earned (and four unearned) runs off six hits. Woodward was also big at the plate, going 3-for-4 with three RBI, two runs, and two doubles. She has been hot recently, having posted three or more hits the last three times she's played.
In other batting news, Ariella Morris was incredible, going a perfect 3-for-3 with two runs, one stolen base, and one double. Another player making a difference was Shelby Shepherd, who went 1-for-2 with two runs and one stolen base.
Emmanuel Christian always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .529. They are a perfect 7-0 when they post an OBP of .513 or better.
Emmanuel Christian's victory bumped their record up to 9-6. As for Cardinal Stritch, their defeat dropped their record down to 2-7.
Thursday's match might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Cardinal Stritch has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .568. However, it's not like Emmanuel Christian struggles in that department as they've averaged .517. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Cardinal Stritch might still be hurting after the 15-0 loss they got from Emmanuel Christian in their previous matchup back in May of 2023. Can the Cardinals avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
