The Independence Patriots will face off against the Pine Lake Prep Pride at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. Independence is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 9.4 runs per game this season.
Independence's last matchup with Ballantyne Ridge could've gone either way, but unfortunately the same can't be said for the pair's contest on Wednesday. The Patriots came up short against the Wolves, falling 12-2. Having soared to a lofty 17 runs in the game before, the Patriots couldn't push the score so high this time.
Anthony Mosher made the most of his time in the batter's box despite the final result and went a perfect 2-for-2 with one home run, two RBI, and one double. That home run was his first of the season.
Meanwhile, Pine Lake Prep unfortunately witnessed the end of their four-game winning streak on Tuesday. They fell just short of Lake Norman Charter by a score of 9-8.
Pine Lake Prep also got a good showing from Jeter Bynum, who pitched four innings while giving up just one earned run off three hits.
At the plate, Landen Elkes was cooking despite his team's loss, going 1-for-3 with one home run, two stolen bases, and two RBI. Another player making a difference was Ben House, who went a perfect 2-for-2 with two RBI and one double.
Independence's loss dropped their record down to 4-4. As for Pine Lake Prep, their defeat dropped their record down to 4-2.
The batters for both teams will have to hit smart on Thursday as both have some strikeout artists on the roster. Independence has been retiring batters left and right this season, having averaged 6.8 strikeouts per game. However, it's not like Pine Lake Prep struggles in that department as they've been averaging an even more impressive 9 strikeouts. Considering how easily both teams rack up Ks, the hitters on both teams better bring their A-game into this one.
Independence suffered a grim 22-12 defeat to Pine Lake Prep in their previous matchup back in March of 2025. Will the Patriots have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more baseball content.
