Baseball Game Preview: Independence Patriots vs. Copper Canyon Aztecs

For the second straight game, Independence will face off against Copper Canyon. Independence will welcome Copper Canyon at 3:45 p.m. on Thursday. Independence has given up an average of 7.7 runs per game this season, but Thursday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

Independence fell victim to Copper Canyon and their airtight pitching crew on Tuesday. They came up short against the Aztecs, falling 15-0. The Patriots just can't catch a break and have now endured three defeats in a row.

For Copper Canyon's part, Max Torres Felix was a major factor no matter where he played. He pitched three innings while giving up no earned runs off two hits. Torres Felix also tossed no earned runs, which is notable because Copper Canyon is 3-1 when he allows at most one earned run, but 1-2-1 otherwise. Torres Felix was also big at the plate, scoring two runs while going 2-for-3. The dominant performance also gave him a new career-high in doubles (two).

In other batting news, Ulysses Encinas was a standout: he scored two runs and stole three bases while getting on base in three of his four plate appearances. He is on a roll when it comes to stolen bases, as he's now snagged two or more in each of the last three games he's played. Anthony Acosta Livas was another key player, scoring two runs and stealing a base while going 1-for-2.

Copper Canyon was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .471. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Independence only posted a batting average of .154.

Independence's loss dropped their record down to 1-4-1. As for Copper Canyon, they now have a winning record of 4-3-1.

Thursday's match might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Independence has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .526. However, it's not like Copper Canyon struggles in that department as they've averaged .522. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other baseball content.