Benton is 0-3 against Anna-Jonesboro since April of 2024 but things could change on Tuesday. The Rangers will be playing in front of their home fans against the Wildcats at 4:30 p.m. Benton has given up an average of 7.8 runs per game this season, but Tuesday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Benton lost 11-2 to Pinckneyville on Monday.
Benton saw two different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Carlie James (2026), who went 3-for-4 with two RBI.
Frankfort typically has all the answers at home, but on Monday Anna-Jonesboro proved too difficult a challenge. They were the clear victors by a 9-2 margin over the Redbirds. Considering the Wildcats have won 17 matches by more than five runs this season, Monday's blowout was nothing new.
Ruby Yates spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered only one earned (and one unearned) run on five hits. She has been consistent for a while: she hasn't given up more than one walk in 16 consecutive appearances.
At the plate, Ariana Turner was incredible, firing off two home runs while going 3-for-4. That's the most hits she has posted since back in March. Kansas Craig was another key player, going 2-for-4 with three RBI, one run, and one double.
Anna-Jonesboro kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 11 hits. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now got at least 11 hits in six consecutive contests.
Anna-Jonesboro's win bumped their record up to 19-3. As for Benton, their defeat dropped their record down to 12-9.
Tuesday's game will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Benton hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .428. However, it's not like Anna-Jonesboro struggles in that department as they've averaged .462. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Benton suffered a grim 16-1 defeat to Anna-Jonesboro in their previous matchup on April 8th. Will the Rangers have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.
