Oberlin is 0-8-1 against Columbia since April of 2016 but things could change on Monday. The Phoenix will face off against the Raiders at 5:00 p.m. Oberlin has given up an average of 17 runs per game this season, but Monday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Oberlin is headed into Monday's match looking for a big change in momentum after dropping their 11th straight game on Thursday. They came up short against Black River, falling 17-1.
Oberlin saw two different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Larissa Freas, who went 1-for-3 with one stolen base.
Meanwhile, after only one run in their last contest, Columbia made sure to put some runs up on the board against Brookside on Friday. The Raiders were the clear victors by an 11-1 margin over the Cardinals. The result was nothing new for the Raiders, who have now won ten games by ten runs or more so far this season.
Alina Jones spent all six innings played on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered only one earned run on five hits and racked up eight Ks. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't tossed less than five strikeouts in four consecutive appearances.
On the hitting side, Natalie Miller was incredible, going 2-for-4 with two stolen bases, three RBI, and one double. That's the most RBI she has posted since back in April. Grace Anderson was another key player, going 2-for-4 with two stolen bases and three runs.
Columbia kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 11 hits. They are a perfect 11-0 when they post 11 or more hits.
Columbia's record now sits at 13-7. As for Oberlin, their loss dropped their record down to 1-12-1.
Monday's match might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Oberlin has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .451. However, it's not like Columbia struggles in that department as they've averaged .475. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Oberlin suffered a grim 19-0 defeat to Columbia in their previous meeting back in April. Can the Phoenix avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
