The Streetsboro Rockets will take on the Crestwood Red Devils at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday. Streetsboro is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 6.9 runs per game this season.
Tuesday just wasn't the day for Streetsboro's offense. They took a 4-0 hit to the loss column at the hands of Coventry on Tuesday. The Rockets have struggled against the Comets recently, as the game was their third consecutive lost matchup.
Streetsboro saw three different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Ella Simpson, who went 2-for-3 with one double.
Meanwhile, there's no place like home for Crestwood, who bounced back after a loss on the road on Thursday. They put the hurt on Valley Forge with a sharp 12-1 victory on Saturday. The win was a breath of fresh air for the Red Devils as it put an end to their three-game losing streak.
Bella Stier was a major factor no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, pitching four innings while giving up just one earned run off five hits. She has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than two walks in four consecutive appearances. She was also stellar in the batter's box, going 2-for-3 with two stolen bases, three RBI, and one run.
In other pitching news, Gracelin Hampton looked comfortable as she tossed one inning while giving up no earned runs or hits. What's more, she posted two strikeouts, the most she's had since back in April.
Back at the plate, Crestwood got a massive performance out of Jillian Hayes, who went a perfect 3-for-3 with three RBI, two runs, and one stolen base. The team also got some help courtesy of Audrey Julian, who got on base in all three of her plate appearances with two stolen bases and three runs.
Crestwood always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .571. They are 3-1 when they post an OBP of .513 or better.
Streetsboro's loss dropped their record down to 9-12. As for Crestwood, their victory bumped their record up to 6-10.
Wednesday's game might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Streetsboro has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .437. However, it's not like Crestwood struggles in that department as they've averaged .437. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Streetsboro might still be hurting after the 14-4 defeat they got from Crestwood in their previous meeting back in March of 2023. Will the Rockets have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.
