The Hulbert Riders will head out to face off against the Haskell Haymakers at 5:00 p.m. on Friday. The teams are rolling into the game with opposing streaks: Hulbert has struggled recently with four losses in a row, while Haskell will arrive with eight straight victories.
Hulbert lost 13-1 to Chouteau-Mazie on Tuesday. That's two games in a row now that the Riders have lost by exactly 12 runs.
Meanwhile, Haskell never let their opponents score on Tuesday. Everything went their way against Summit Christian Academy as they made off with an 11-0 win. The Haymakers might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won eight games by seven runs or more this season.
Jaxon Drain was a major factor while hitting and pitching. He didn't allow a single earned run over four innings pitched. Drain was also stellar in the batter's box, going 2-for-3 with four RBI, two runs, and one triple.
In other batting news, Jacob Yocham was incredible, going a perfect 2-for-2 with one stolen base, two RBI, and one run. That's the most RBI he has posted since back in April of 2025. Ryker Porter also deserves some recognition as he hit his first double of the season.
Haskell was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .524. That was just more of the same: they've now posted a batting average of .333 or higher in three consecutive matchups.
Hulbert's defeat dropped their record down to 1-4. As for Haskell, their record is now 9-1.
Friday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Hulbert has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .434. However, it's not like Haskell struggles in that department as they've averaged .551. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Hulbert beat Haskell 10-6 in their previous matchup back in April of 2025. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Riders since the squad won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.
