Claiborne is 0-10 against Grainger since March of 2022 but things could change on Tuesday. The Bulldogs will head out to take on the Grizzlies at 6:00 p.m. Claiborne is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 7.5 runs per game this season.
Claiborne came into their game on Thursday off a hard-fought close win, but unfortunately suffered a serious change of fortune. They came up short against Volunteer, falling 10-0.
Garrett Keiter made the most of his time at bat despite the final result and went 2-for-3 with two doubles and one stolen base.
Grainger came out on top against Volunteer on Monday thanks in part to the team's impressive eight-run fifth inning. The Grizzlies never let the Falcons get on the board and left with an 11-0 victory. Considering the Grizzlies' hitters had been struggling lately, the high-scoring outing was a much-needed turnaround.
Nolan Wallace made a splash no matter where he played. He didn't allow a single earned run and allowed only one hit over five innings pitched. Wallace was also big at the plate, going 2-for-4 with three RBI. That's the most RBI he has posted over his last 13 games.
In other batting news, Connor May was incredible, going 3-for-4 with two runs, two RBI, and one double. He is becoming a predictor of Grainger's success: when he posts at least two runs the team is 4-1 (and 8-15 when he doesn't). Another player making a difference was Kade Lucas, who got on base in three of his four plate appearances with two runs, one stolen base, and one RBI.
Grainger always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .517. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Volunteer only posted an OBP of .375.
Claiborne's loss dropped their record down to 12-12. As for Grainger, their record is now 12-16.
Tuesday's match might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Claiborne has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .453. However, it's not like Grainger struggles in that department as they've averaged .437. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Claiborne came up short against Grainger in their previous meeting two weeks ago, falling 7-2. Can the Bulldogs avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
