The Marion Giants will challenge the Southwood Knights at 5:00 p.m. on Friday. Marion has given up an average of 9.6 runs per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Marion headed into their last game having not scored more than two runs for three straight, but Northfield let them put that streak behind them. The Giants came out on top against the Norsemen by a score of 18-13 on Thursday. The win was some much needed relief for the Giants as it spelled an end to their three-game losing streak.
Jayonna Davis
| 05/01/25 @ Northfield | 3 |
| 04/23/25 vs Norwell | 1 |
| 04/22/25 @ Peru | 1 |
| 04/18/25 @ Wabash | 1 |
| 04/14/25 vs New Haven | 1 |
Marion got a massive performance out of Jayonna Davis, who went 2-for-5 with one home run, three RBI, and two runs. Those three RBI gave Davis a new career-high. Jasmine Weaver was another key player, going 3-for-6 with one home run and two RBI.
They weren't the only ones making solid contact: Marion kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 18 hits. The team's really been improving in that area: they've now improved their hit total in three consecutive matches.
Southwood let Northwestern stack six runs on them in the second inning on Wednesday but luckily Southwood prevailed anyway. The Knights skirted past the Tigers 8-7. The victory made it back-to-back wins for the Knights.
Natalie Sutphin spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered five earned (and two unearned) runs on six hits. She has been consistent: she hasn't given up more than two walks in eight consecutive appearances.
At the plate, the team relied heavily on Rowan Goodpasture, who went 2-for-3 with one home run, three runs, and one triple. She also brought in two RBI, marking her first of the season. Another player making a difference was Gracie Lambert, who went 2-for-4 with one home run.
Marion pushed their record up to 5-9 with the victory, which was their third straight on the road. Those road wins came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 13.3 runs over those games. As for Southwood, their victory bumped their record up to 6-3.
Friday's contest will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Marion hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .321. However, it's not like Southwood struggles in that department as they've averaged .325. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Marion skirted past Southwood 11-9 in their previous matchup back in April of 2021. Do the Giants have another victory up their sleeve, or will the Knights turn the tables on them? We'll have the answer soon enough.
