The Cherryville Ironmen will head out to face off against the West Stanly Colts at 1:30 p.m. on Monday. Cherryville knows how to get runs on the board -- the squad has finished with ten runs or more in their past six games -- so hopefully West Stanly likes a good challenge.
On Thursday, Cherryville made easy work of Bessemer City and carried off a 14-1 victory. The Ironmen haven't had any issues with the Yellow Jackets recently, as the game was their sixth consecutive win against them.
Kennedy Weathers was a standout: she got on base in all three of her plate appearances with two runs, one triple, and two RBI. The team also got some help courtesy of Ava Miller, who went 2-for-3 with two runs, one triple, and one double.
Cherryville always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .645. They are a perfect 10-0 when they post an OBP of .513 or better.
Meanwhile, West Stanly was able to grind out a solid victory over Central Academy on Wednesday, taking the game 7-2.
Madi Whitley spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered just two earned runs on seven hits and racked up nine Ks. She has been consistent for a while: she hasn't given up more than two walks in 17 consecutive appearances.
On the hitting side, West Stanly's win was truly a team effort as five different players contributed at least one hit. One of them was Payton Watson, who went 2-for-4 with two runs.
Cherryville pushed their record up to 13-5 with the victory, which was their fourth straight at home. Those home wins came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 14.0 runs over those games. As for West Stanly, they have been performing incredibly well recently as they've won 13 of their last 15 contests. That's provided a nice bump to their 17-3 record this season.
Monday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Cherryville has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .506. However, it's not like West Stanly struggles in that department as they've averaged .459. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.
