The Babcock Trailblazers are taking a road trip to challenge the Sarasota Christian Blazers at 4:00 p.m. on Friday. Babcock is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 9.9 runs per game this season.
Babcock is probably headed into the matchup with a chip on their shoulder considering DeSoto County just ended the team's seven-game winning streak on Tuesday. They lost 8-1 to the Bulldogs. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest defeat the Trailblazers have suffered since February 28th.
Emmie Barritt was cooking despite her team's loss, going a perfect 3-for-3 with one home run and one double. That double was her first of the season.
Meanwhile, Sarasota Christian waltzed into their game on Wednesday with two straight wins... but they left with three. Their pitcher stepped up to hand the Tornadoes a 20-0 shutout. The result was nothing new for the Blazers, who have now won four contests by six runs or more so far this season.
Brooklyn Loftus was a major factor while hitting and pitching. On the mound, she struck out six batters over three innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit (and not a single walk). Those six strikeouts gave her a new career-high. She was also solid in the batter's box, scoring two runs while going 1-for-2.
In other batting news, Selah Spenn was incredible, going a perfect 4-for-4 with one home run, five RBI, and two runs. That's the most RBI she has posted since back in February of 2024. Another player making a difference was Dev Mclaughlin, who scored three runs and stole three bases while going 3-for-4.
Sarasota Christian kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 20 hits. That's the most hits they've managed all season.
Babcock's loss dropped their record down to 10-4. As for Sarasota Christian, they now have a winning record of 4-3.
Friday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Babcock has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .520. However, it's not like Sarasota Christian struggles in that department as they've averaged .667. 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.