The Temple Christian Crusaders will head out to challenge the Christian Heritage Academy Knights at 4:30 p.m. on Monday. Temple Christian knows how to get runs on the board -- the squad has finished with ten runs or more in their past four matches -- so hopefully Christian Heritage Academy likes a good challenge.
Temple Christian made up a huge gap compared to their last game against C.H. Friend, but they still couldn't quite topple them. The Crusaders were the clear victors by a 13-6 margin over the Red Jackets on Friday. The result was nothing new for the Crusaders, who have now won five games by seven runs or more so far this season.
Reagan Hensley was a major factor no matter where she played. She kept things locked down with no earned runs or hits while striking out seven over 6.1 innings pitched. She has been nothing but reliable on the mound: she hasn't given up more than two walks any time she's pitched this season. She was also stellar in the batter's box, scoring four runs and stealing two bases while going 3-for-5. With that strong performance, she is now averaging an impressive 2.1 runs per game.
In other batting news, Sadie Forster was incredible, scoring two runs and stealing two bases while going 2-for-4. What's more, she posted three RBI, the most she's had since back in April of 2024. Paylin Harris was another key player, scoring three runs and stealing a base while getting on base in three of her four plate appearances.
Meanwhile, Christian Heritage Academy came up short against Varsity Opponent on Tuesday, falling 25-10. The Knights have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.
Reese McDonald made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and scored three runs and stole two bases while going 2-for-2.
Temple Christian's record now sits at 5-3. As for Christian Heritage Academy, they now have a losing record of 1-2.
Temple Christian's speedy runners might be the difference in Monday's contest. The Crusaders have been swiping bases left and right this season, having averaged 5 stolen bases per game. It's a different story for Christian Heritage Academy, though, as they've been averaging only 1.3 stolen bases. Will they be able to secure the bases, or will Temple Christian continue to outrun the ball?
Everything went Temple Christian's way against Christian Heritage Academy in their previous matchup two weeks ago, as Temple Christian made off with an 11-0 win. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Crusaders since the team won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.
