For the first time this season, West Vigo will have a chance to prove themselves in a conference matchup. They will host the Cloverdale Clovers at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday. West Vigo is currently enjoying a perfect season and no doubt wants to keep things rolling.
West Vigo is coming in fresh off a high-stakes matchup with another one of Indiana's top teams: Riverton Parke, who was ranked 13th at the time (West Vigo was ranked first). The Vikings narrowly escaped with a win as the team sidled past the Panthers 7-5. Those seven runs were actually the fewest the Vikings have put up all season, but given the result they're probably not too concerned.
Jaleigh Lindley spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered only one earned (and four unearned) runs on nine hits and racked up 11 Ks. She has been consistent : she hasn't given up more than one earned run in five consecutive appearances.
On the hitting side, Lily Krause was excellent, going 1-for-3 with one home run and two RBI. That home run was her first of the season. Grace Rodgers was another key player, scoring a run while going 1-for-2.
Meanwhile, Cloverdale scored first but ultimately less than Monrovia in their match on Monday. They fell 9-5 to the Bulldogs. The loss was the Clovers' first of the season.
Aalyiah Burroff made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and went 1-for-3 with one home run and three RBI.
West Vigo pushed their record up to 8-0 with the victory, which was their fourth straight at home dating back to last season. They've had to fight for that success though, as they only beat their opponents by an average of 3.75 runs across that stretch. As for Cloverdale, their loss was their first of the season and makes their record 3-1.
Tuesday's game might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. West Vigo has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .514. However, it's not like Cloverdale struggles in that department as they've averaged .463. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
West Vigo took their win against Cloverdale in their previous matchup back in April of 2024 by a conclusive 13-2 score. Do the Vikings have another victory up their sleeve, or will the Clovers turn the tables on them? We'll have the answer soon enough.