The Dutch Fork Silver Foxes will head out to square off against the Midland Valley Mustangs at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Dutch Fork has given up an average of 8.4 runs per game this season, but Wednesday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Dutch Fork came into their game on Tuesday off a hard-fought close win, but unfortunately suffered a serious change of fortune. They lost 15-5 to Gray Collegiate Academy. The Silver Foxes haven't had much luck with the War Eagles recently, as the team has come up short the last four times they've met.
Katie-Grace Hill made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and went 2-for-3 with two runs, one stolen base, and one RBI. Another player making a difference was Ayanna Russell, who went a perfect 3-for-3 with one run.
Meanwhile, after only one run in their last matchup, Midland Valley made sure to put some runs up on the board against Chapin on Monday. The Mustangs walked away with a 10-5 win over the Eagles.
Larue Hicks spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered five earned runs on 11 hits. She has been consistent: she hasn't given up more than one walk in seven consecutive appearances.
At the plate, Mallorie Smith was incredible, going a perfect 4-for-4 with one home run, three runs, and two RBI. That's the most hits she has posted since back in March. The team also got some help courtesy of Jordan Nelson, who went 2-for-4 with three RBI, one run, and one double.
Midland Valley kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 11 hits. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now got at least eight hits in 11 consecutive games.
Midland Valley is on a roll lately: they've won ten of their last 11 contests. That's provided a nice bump to their 17-8 record this season. The victories came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 12.1 runs over those games. As for Dutch Fork, their loss dropped their record down to 8-11.
Wednesday's match will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Dutch Fork hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .315. However, it's not like Midland Valley struggles in that department as they've averaged .354. 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 softball content.
