Water Valley is 1-9 against Bruce since March of 2017 but they'll have a chance to close the gap a little bit on Tuesday. Water Valley will host Bruce at 6:30 p.m. Water Valley has given up an average of 11.3 runs per game this season, but Tuesday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Monday just wasn't the day for Water Valley's offense. They came up short against Calhoun City on Monday, falling 15-0. Having soared to a lofty 20 runs in the game before, the Blue Devils' shutout was a dramatic turnaround.
Water Valley saw two different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Ryley Hill, who went a perfect 1-for-1 with one double.
Meanwhile, there's no place like home for Bruce, who bounced back after a loss on the road last Monday. They never let Palmer get on the board and left with a 20-0 victory on Thursday. The Trojans haven't had any issues with the Dragons recently, as the game was their fourth consecutive win against them.
Sammie Gunter was a major factor no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out seven batters over three innings while giving up no earned runs off three hits (and not a single walk). She has been consistent for a while: she hasn't given up more than two walks any time she's pitched this season. She was also stellar in the batter's box, scoring a run while going 2-for-2. She also hit a double, marking her first of the season.
In other batting news, Addi Bailey was a standout: she scored three runs and stole four bases while getting on base in all four of her plate appearances. Another player making a difference was Sadie Box, who scored three runs and stole three bases while going 2-for-2.
Bruce was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .714. The last time their batting average was this high was back in March of 2024.
Water Valley's defeat dropped their record down to 11-9. As for Bruce, their victory bumped their record up to 8-9.
Tuesday's contest will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Water Valley hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .363. However, it's not like Bruce struggles in that department as they've averaged .369. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Water Valley might still be hurting after the 12-0 loss they got from Bruce when the teams last played two weeks ago. Will Water Valley have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.
