The Hasbrouck Heights Aviators will head out to square off against the Eastern Christian Eagles at 6:30 p.m. on Friday. Both squads will be entering this one on the heels of a big victory.
Hasbrouck Heights came out on top against Lodi on Monday thanks in part to the team's impressive seven-run second inning. The Aviators put the hurt on the Rams with a sharp 11-1 win. The high-scoring effort was just what the Aviators needed considering they were shut out in their previous match.
Maddy Connelly spent all five innings played on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered a run (which was unearned) on one hit and racked up seven Ks.
On the hitting side, Hasbrouck Heights got a massive performance out of Ali Monchino, who went 2-for-3 with one home run, four RBI, and two runs. That home run marked the first that Monchino has launched this season. Another player making a difference was Mackenzie Riordan, who went 3-for-4 with four stolen bases, two runs, and one triple.
They weren't the only ones making solid contact: Hasbrouck Heights kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 13 hits. They are a perfect 14-0 when they post 11 or more hits.
Meanwhile, it was a Battle of the Birds when Eastern Christian challenged Manchester Regional on Thursday. The Eagles were the clear victors by an 18-3 margin over the Falcons.
Alina Ellis made a splash no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, pitching one inning while giving up no earned runs or hits. Ellis was also stellar in the batter's box, going 3-for-4 with four RBI, one run, and one double. Those four RBI gave her a new career-high.
In other pitching news, Avery Conrad looked comfortable as she didn't allow a single earned run while striking out six over four innings pitched. Those six strikeouts gave her a new career-high.
Back at the plate, Nali DeLorenzo was a standout: she went a perfect 5-for-5 with three runs and two RBI. Those three runs gave her a new career-high. The team also got some help courtesy of Camila Ramirez, who got on base in three of her five plate appearances with three RBI and two runs.
Hasbrouck Heights' record now sits at 17-4. As for Eastern Christian, their record is now 8-9.
Friday's game might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Hasbrouck Heights has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .518. However, it's not like Eastern Christian 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.
Hasbrouck Heights suffered a grim 10-1 defeat to Eastern Christian in their previous matchup back in April of 2022. Can the Aviators avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
