Floyd hasn't had much luck against Melrose recently, but that could start to change on Monday. The Broncos will face off against the Buffaloes at 2:00 p.m. Floyd has given up an average of 16.5 runs per game this season, but Monday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Floyd is headed into Monday's contest looking for a big change in momentum after dropping their 16th straight game dating back to last season on Monday. They came up short against Gateway Christian, falling 18-0.
Adan Nieto was cooking despite his team's loss, going 1-for-2 with three stolen bases. With that strong performance, he is now averaging an impressive 1.2 stolen bases per game. David Melendez also deserves some recognition as he snagged his first stolen bases of the season.
Meanwhile, Melrose hadn't done well against Tucumcari recently (they were 0-3 in their previous three matchups), but they didn't let the past get in their way on Thursday. The Buffaloes were the clear victors by a 17-3 margin over the Rattlers. Considering the Buffaloes have won three games by more than 13 runs this season, Thursday's blowout was nothing new.
Josiah Roybal was a major factor no matter where he played. He looked comfortable on the mound, striking out nine batters over five innings while giving up just one earned (and two unearned) runs off four hits (and only one walk). Those nine strikeouts gave him a new career-high. He was also big at the plate, scoring three runs and stealing a base while going 4-for-4. Melrose is 4-1 when Roybal posts two or more runs, but 0-3 otherwise.
In other batting news, Cy Draper was incredible, scoring three runs while going 3-for-3. He has become a key player for Melrose: the team is 3-1 when he posts at least two runs, but 1-3 otherwise. Another player making a difference was Briar Larson, who scored three runs while getting on base in three of his four plate appearances.
Melrose was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .519. They are 3-1 when they post a batting average of .375 or better.
Melrose has been performing well recently as they've won three of their last four matches. That's provided a nice bump to their 4-4 record this season. Those wins came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 16.3 runs over those games. As for Floyd, their loss dropped their record down to 0-4.
Monday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Floyd has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .454. However, it's not like Melrose struggles in that department as they've averaged .537. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Floyd suffered a grim 24-5 defeat to Melrose in their previous matchup back in March of 2023. Can the Broncos avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
