The Manitou Springs Mustangs are taking a road trip to take on the Mesa Ridge Grizzlies at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Manitou Springs has given up an average of 7.7 runs per game this season, but Tuesday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Manitou Springs came into their game on Saturday off a hard-fought close win, but unfortunately suffered a serious change of fortune. They came up short against Lamar, falling 11-4. The Mustangs' loss signaled the end of their three-game winning streak.
Manitou Springs saw six different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Maxton Bolster, who went 3-for-4 with one triple, one run, and one double.
Meanwhile, Mesa Ridge never let their opponents score on Monday. They blew past Harrison 13-0. With that victory, the Grizzlies brought their scoring average up to 6.2 runs per game.
Gabriel Montijo made a splash no matter where he played. He kept things locked down with no earned runs or hits while striking out nine over five innings pitched. He has been consistent: he hasn't tossed less than five strikeouts in six consecutive appearances. He was also solid in the batter's box, going 2-for-3 with two runs, one stolen base, and one RBI. Mesa Ridge is 7-1 when Montijo posts two or more runs, but 2-12 otherwise.
In other batting news, Ozcar Walker was incredible, going 2-for-3 with one home run and four RBI. He has become a key player for Mesa Ridge: the team is undefeated when he posts at least one home run, but 6-13 otherwise. Another player making a difference was Brandon Bittner, who went 2-for-4 with three runs, one stolen base, and one RBI.
Mesa Ridge always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .548. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Harrison only posted an OBP of .158.
Mesa Ridge's record is now 9-13. As for Manitou Springs, their defeat dropped their record down to 12-9.
Tuesday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Manitou Springs has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .455. However, it's not like Mesa Ridge struggles in that department as they've averaged .438. 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.
