Lafayette Jefferson hasn't had much luck against Lebanon recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. The Bronchos will square off against the Tigers at 5:30 p.m. Lafayette Jefferson will be strutting in after a win while Lebanon will be coming in after a defeat.
Lafayette Jefferson gave up the first runs on Monday, but they didn't let that get them down. They were the clear victors by a 17-3 margin over Lafayette Central Catholic. The high-scoring effort was just what the Bronchos needed considering they were shut out in their previous match.
Reagan Hipsher made a big impact no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, tossing 3.1 innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than two walks in six consecutive appearances. She was also solid in the batter's box, going 2-for-5 with three RBI and one double.
In other batting news, Lafayette Jefferson let Evy Pitt and Rilee Clifton run wild. Pitt went 3-for-4 with three RBI, two runs, and one stolen base, while Clifton went 3-for-5 with two stolen bases, three runs, and one RBI. That's the most RBI Pitt has posted since back in April of 2024. The team also got some help courtesy of Ahni Harper, who went 2-for-4 with three RBI and two runs.
Lafayette Jefferson kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 12 hits. They are a perfect 3-0 when they post 11 or more hits.
Meanwhile, Lebanon didn't have quite enough to beat Western Boone on Wednesday and fell 4-3. The loss continues a trend for the Tigers in their meetings with the Stars: they've now lost six in a row.
Miley Wilhoite was a force to be reckoned with on the mound despite the final result: she tossed six innings while giving up just one earned (and three unearned) runs off seven hits.
On the hitting side, Krryn Miller was cooking despite her team's loss, going 2-for-4 with two runs, one triple, and one double. Another player making a difference was Sophie Robison, who went 2-for-3 with one double.
Lafayette Jefferson's record is now 5-3. As for Lebanon, their defeat dropped their record down to 8-4.
Thursday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Lafayette Jefferson has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .442. However, it's not like Lebanon struggles in that department as they've averaged .501. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Lafayette Jefferson couldn't quite finish off Lebanon when the teams last played back in April of 2024 and fell 3-1. Can the Bronchos avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
