The Independence Knights will face off against the Emerson Mavericks at 11:00 a.m. on Friday. One thing working in Independence's favor is that they have posted at least ten runs in their last three games.
Independence gave up the first runs on Wednesday, but they didn't let that get them down. They were the clear victors by an 18-5 margin over Heritage. The Knights haven't had any issues with the Coyotes recently, as the game was their fifth consecutive win against them.
Independence got a massive performance out of Megan McCadden, who got on base in all five of her plate appearances with three RBI, two runs, and one double. Bella Arredondo was another key player, going 3-for-4 with three runs and three RBI.
Independence always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .564. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Heritage only posted an OBP of .360.
Emerson came out on top against Frisco on Monday thanks in part to the team's impressive four-run fifth inning. The Mavericks walked away with an 8-3 victory over the Raccoons.
Sarah Lester made a splash no matter where she played. On the mound, she tossed six innings while giving up just two earned runs off three hits. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than two walks in three consecutive appearances. She was also solid in the batter's box, going 1-for-3 with one run and one double.
In other batting news, Emerson let Ellie Thurman and Savanna Carleton run wild. Thurman went a perfect 3-for-3 with three runs, one triple, and one double, while Carleton went 3-for-4 with three RBI, two doubles, and one stolen base. That stolen base was Carleton's first of the season. Another player making a difference was Gianna Lipsky, who went 1-for-4 with two runs, one triple, and one RBI.
The win was their first on the road, bumping their record up to 4-13-1. As for Emerson, their victory bumped their record up to 12-8.
Friday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Independence has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .447. However, it's not like Emerson struggles in that department as they've averaged .498. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Independence might still be hurting after the 16-3 loss they got from Emerson in their previous matchup back in March. Will the Knights have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.
