Hercules hasn't had much luck against Saint Mary recently, but that could start to change on Friday. The Titans will head out on the road to face off against the Panthers at 4:00 p.m. Hercules has given up an average of 9 runs per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Things were looking good for Hercules after they put the first run on the board on Thursday, but unfortunately for them things went downhill from there. They lost 16-6 to Ygnacio Valley.
Chriatian Vargas made the most of his time in the batter's box despite the final result and got on base in all three of his plate appearances with two runs, one stolen base, and one double. The team also got some help courtesy of Khalil Summerville, who got on base in two of his three plate appearances with two runs and one stolen base.
Saint Mary's came out on top against Hercules on Wednesday thanks in part to the team's impressive five-run first inning. The Panthers took their contest against the Titans 9-5. The Panthers haven't had any issues with the Titans recently, as the game was their sixth consecutive victory against them.
Logan Donoviel made a splash no matter where he played. On the mound, he pitched one inning while giving up no earned runs or hits. He has been nothing but reliable: he hasn't given up more than two walks in nine consecutive appearances. He was also big at the plate, getting on base in two of his four plate appearances with three stolen bases and two runs. Those three stolen bases gave him a new career-high.
In other pitching news, Preston Baenen tossed a big game, striking out nine batters over 4.2 innings while giving up just two earned (and three unearned) runs off five hits.
Back at the plate, Damien Nolan was excellent, going a perfect 3-for-3 with two stolen bases, two runs, and one double. Bryce Gilmore was another key player, going 1-for-3 with two stolen bases, two runs, and one double.
Saint Mary's record now sits at 15-6. As for Hercules, their defeat dropped their record down to 3-19.
The pitchers for both teams better look sharp on Friday as neither team is afraid to steal. Hercules has been swiping bases left and right this season, having averaged 4.8 stolen bases per game. However, it's not like Saint Mary's struggles in that department as they've been averaging 3 stolen bases. The only question left is which team can snag more.
Hercules couldn't quite get it done against Saint Mary's in their previous matchup on Wednesday as they fell 9-5. Can the Titans avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
