The Rockford Auburn Knights will venture away from home to square off against the Belvidere Bucs at 4:30 p.m. on Friday. Both come into the contest bolstered by wins in their previous matches.
Rockford Auburn took a loss when they played away from home on Monday, but their home fans gave them all the motivation they needed on Wednesday. They came out on top against Jefferson by a score of 8-5. The victory was a breath of fresh air for the Knights as it put an end to their three-game losing streak.
Walter Povalitis
| 04/30/25 vs Jefferson | 5 |
| 04/23/25 vs Belvidere North | 0 |
| 04/22/25 @ Rockford East | 2 |
| 04/14/25 vs Guilford | 1 |
| 04/05/25 @ Warren/Stockton | 5 |
Walter Povalitis made a big impact no matter where he played. He tossed seven innings while giving up just two earned (and three unearned) runs off six hits. What's more, he posted five strikeouts, the most he's had since back in April. He was also big at the plate, getting on base in three of his five plate appearances with two runs. He has become a key player for Rockford Auburn: the team is 3-1 when he posts at least two runs, but 0-12 otherwise.
In other batting news, Jamar Reedy and Jacob Chidley did most of the damage at the plate: Reedy went 2-for-4 with two runs, one stolen base, and one RBI, while Chidley went 2-for-3 with one stolen base, two RBI, and one run. That's the most RBI Chidley has posted since back in May of 2024. Tevin Stevens also deserves some recognition as he scored his first run of the season.
Meanwhile, Belvidere posted their closest win since May 17, 2024 on Wednesday. They sure made it a nail-biter, but they managed to escape with an 8-6 victory over Rockford East.
Gio Urbietta was excellent, going 1-for-3 with two stolen bases and one run. Another player making a difference was Griffin Wendell, who got on base in all three of his plate appearances with two runs and one stolen base.
Rockford Auburn's record is now 3-13. As for Belvidere, their win ended a nine-game drought at home dating back to last season and bumped them up to 3-17.
The pitchers for both teams better look sharp on Friday as neither team is afraid to steal. Rockford Auburn has been swiping bases left and right this season, having averaged 3.9 stolen bases per game. However, it's not like Belvidere struggles in that department as they've been averaging an even more impressive 2.9 stolen bases. The only question left is which team can snag more.
Rockford Auburn suffered a grim 19-1 defeat to Belvidere in their previous matchup back in April of 2024. Can the Knights avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
