The Hanson Memorial Tigers will face off against Ascension Christian at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday. Hanson Memorial has given up an average of 10.8 runs per game this season, but Saturday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Hanson Memorial was handed a eight-run loss in their previous outing, but that didn't affect their clutch gene on Thursday. They sure made it a nail-biter, but they managed to escape with a 13-11 victory over Vermilion Catholic. Give some credit to the fans of both teams: the last four times they've met, the home team has come away the winner.
The team relied heavily on Camren Rochel, who went 2-for-4 with one home run, three runs, and two RBI. Emily Faucheux was another key player, scoring two runs and stealing a base while getting on base in all five of her plate appearances.
Hanson Memorial always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .548. They are 4-2 when they post an OBP of .513 or better.
Meanwhile, Ascension Christian suffered their biggest defeat since February 27, 2024 on Friday. They came up short against St. John, falling 9-1. Ascension Christian has now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.
Marie Brignac spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered just two earned (and seven unearned) runs on nine hits. She has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than two walks in four consecutive appearances.
On the hitting side, Ascension Christian saw two different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Abigail Jennings, who went 1-for-3 with one triple and one run. That triple was Jennings' first of the season.
Ascension Christian's loss dropped their record down to 8-6-1. As for Hanson Memorial, their win ended a three-game drought at home and bumped them up to 4-8.
Saturday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Hanson Memorial has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .515. However, it's not like Ascension Christian struggles in that department as they've averaged .499. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Hanson Memorial suffered a grim 16-5 defeat to Ascension Christian when the teams last played back in February. Can Hanson Memorial avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
