For the first time this season, Central will have a chance to prove themselves in a conference matchup. They will host the Pasco Pirates at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday. Central is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 6.3 runs per game this season.
Central took a loss when they played away from home on Friday, but their home fans gave them all the motivation they needed on Tuesday. They were the clear victors by a 15-5 margin over Weeki Wachee. The high-scoring effort was just what the Bears needed considering they were shut out in their previous contest.
Jaida Childs made a big impact no matter where she played. She tossed six innings while giving up three earned (and two unearned) runs off seven hits. What's more, she posted four strikeouts, the most she's had since back in April of 2025. She was also solid in the batter's box, getting on base in three of her four plate appearances with two stolen bases and two runs.
In other batting news, Central got a massive performance out of Christina Barreto, who went a perfect 4-for-4 with four stolen bases, three doubles, and two runs. Those stolen bases were Barreto's first of the season. Another player making a difference was Natalie Atkinson, who went 4-for-5 with three runs, one triple, and one double.
Central was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .444. They are a perfect 3-0 when they post a batting average of .375 or better.
Meanwhile, after some red-hot attacks at the plate in their last three matchups, Pasco finally came back down to earth on Tuesday. They lost 11-1 to Sunlake. The Pirates haven't had much luck with the Seahawks recently, as the team has come up short the last five times they've met.
Pasco saw three different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Alexandra Rivera, who went 1-for-2 with one RBI.
The victory snapped Central's losing streak at three games and leaves them with a 3-4 record. As for Pasco, their defeat dropped their record down to 3-3.
Thursday's game will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Central hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .313. However, it's not like Pasco struggles in that department as they've averaged .449. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.
