Michigan City is on a three-game streak of home losses, and Hammond Central a six-game streak of away losses. However, someone's due for a change in luck on Friday. Michigan City will welcome Hammond Central at 4:45 p.m. Michigan City has given up an average of 10.7 runs per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Michigan City couldn't beat Merrillville on Wednesday even though they stacked four runs on them in the seventh inning. The Wolves took an 11-6 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Pirates.
Michigan City saw five different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Brennan Cosich, who got on base in three of his four plate appearances with one RBI. Mazen Mroueh also deserves some recognition as he hit his first double of the season.
Meanwhile, Hammond Central had to endure a six-game losing streak, but that streak is no more. They put the hurt on Gary West Side with a sharp 20-2 victory on Wednesday. The Wolves might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won seven matches by seven runs or more this season.
Juan Magallanes made a splash no matter where he played. On the mound, he struck out seven batters over four innings while giving up just two earned runs off one hit. He is becoming a predictor of Hammond Central's success: when he allows at most two earned runs the team is 2-1 (and 6-13-1 when he doesn't). Magallanes was even better at the plate, going a perfect 4-for-4 with four runs, one stolen base, and two RBI. That's the most runs he has posted since back in April.
In other batting news, Christopher Buckley was incredible, going a perfect 3-for-3 with two stolen bases, four RBI, and two runs. Hammond Central is 5-1 when Buckley posts three or more RBI, but 3-13-1 otherwise. Elijah Lewis was another key player, going 1-for-3 with two runs, one stolen base, and one double.
Hammond Central was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .467. They are 5-2 when they post a batting average of .375 or better.
Michigan City's defeat dropped their record down to 6-17. As for Hammond Central, their win bumped their record up to 8-14-1.
The pitchers for both teams better look sharp on Friday as neither team is afraid to steal. Michigan City has been swiping bases left and right this season, having averaged 2.9 stolen bases per game. However, it's not like Hammond Central struggles in that department as they've been averaging 3.9 stolen bases. The only question left is which team can snag more.
Michigan City took their victory against Hammond Central in their previous matchup back in May of 2024 by a conclusive 12-2 score. Will Michigan City repeat their success, or does Hammond Central has a new game plan this time around? We'll find out soon enough.
