After both having extra time off, the Cordova Lancers and the McClatchy Lions will shake off the cobwebs and hit the field against one another at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Cordova has given up an average of 11 runs per game this season, but Tuesday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Thursday just wasn't the day for Cordova's offense. They lost 20-0 to West Park last Thursday. The Lancers have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.
Meanwhile, McClatchy waltzed into their matchup last Thursday with three straight wins... but they left with four. They were the clear victors by a 7-1 margin over the Titans. The result was nothing new for the Lions, who have now won five games by six runs or more so far this season.
Madelyn Ogata made a big impact no matter where she played. On the mound, she tossed seven innings while giving up just one earned run off five hits. She has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than one earned run in four consecutive appearances. She was also stellar in the batter's box, going 2-for-4 with one triple, two RBI, and one run. Those two RBI gave her a new career-high.
In other batting news, Jaydilyn Rogers was incredible, going 3-for-4 with two stolen bases, four RBI, and one triple. Those four RBI gave her a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Jayeliza Rogers, who got on base in three of her four plate appearances with two stolen bases, three runs, and one double.
McClatchy hit smart and finished the game with only one strikeout. The team has now struck out at least one batters in three consecutive contests.
McClatchy's win was their third straight at home, which pushed their record up to 10-3. Those home victories came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 1.7 runs on average over those games. As for Cordova, their loss dropped their record down to 4-7.
Tuesday's match might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Cordova has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .480. However, it's not like McClatchy struggles in that department as they've averaged .453. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Cordova suffered a grim 16-0 defeat to McClatchy when the teams last played back in March. Can the Lancers avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
