Softball Recap: Make It Five in a Row for Braden River

Pirates

Margin (Wins)

02/17/26 vs Bayshore	20
03/24/26 @ Southeast	18
02/26/26 vs Southeast	15
02/24/26 @ Manatee	13
02/20/26 @ Riverview Sarasota	12

Braden River hadn't done well against Lakewood Ranch recently (they were 1-8 in their previous nine matchups), but they didn't let the past get in their way on Tuesday. The Pirates blew past the Mustangs 11-1. Considering the Pirates have won nine contests by more than seven runs this season, Tuesday's blowout was nothing new.

Kaydence Evans was a major factor no matter where she played. On the mound, she didn't allow a single earned run and allowed only two hits over six innings pitched. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than two walks in eight consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, going 1-for-4 with one home run.

In other batting news, Cady Jones was incredible, going a perfect 3-for-3 with three RBI, two runs, and one double. That's the most runs she has posted since back in February. Evelyn Paul was another key player, going a perfect 3-for-3 with three runs and one double.

Braden River always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .567. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Lakewood Ranch only posted an OBP of .240.

The victory (which was Braden River's fifth in a row) raised their record to 10-2. The wins came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 0.8 runs on average over those games. As for Lakewood Ranch, they have traveled a rocky road recently, having lost three of their last four games. That's put a noticeable dent in their 8-8 record this season.

Braden River will look to defend their home field on Wednesday against Palmetto at 6:00 p.m. The Pirates' pitchers better be ready for this one: the Tigers have averaged an impressive 7.8 runs per game this season. As for Lakewood Ranch, they will head out on the road to challenge Venice at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday. The Indians' pitching crew has only allowed 4.1 runs per game this season, so the Mustangs' hitters will have their work cut out for them.