Rosemead hasn't had much luck against El Monte recently, but that could start to change on Friday. The Panthers will look to defend their home field against the Lions at 3:30 p.m. Keep an eye on the score for this one: the two teams posted some lofty run totals in their previous games.
Things were looking good for Rosemead after they put the first run on the board on Monday, but unfortunately for them things went downhill from there. They lost 19-12 to Gabrielino. While the Panthers didn't get the win, they did start the game off strong, beating the Eagles 4-0 in the first period.
JAZMIN SLAYTON made the most of her time in the batter's box despite the final result and got on base in four of her seven plate appearances with three runs and one double. JAELENE TORRES was another key player, going 3-for-5 with two doubles and one run.
Meanwhile, El Monte waltzed into their game on Wednesday with two straight wins... but they left with three. Everything went their way against the Eagles as they made off with an 18-2 victory. The Lions might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won nine contests by eight runs or more this season.
The team relied heavily on Joselyn Rivas, who went 1-for-2 with three runs, three RBI, and one triple. Those three RBI gave her a new career-high. The team also got some help courtesy of April Duenas, who got on base in all three of her plate appearances with three runs, one double, and one RBI.
El Monte always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .806. That's the best OBP they've posted all season.
Rosemead's loss dropped their record down to 5-9. As for El Monte, their win bumped their record up to 11-7.
Friday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Rosemead has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .436. However, it's not like El Monte struggles in that department as they've averaged .516. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Rosemead might still be hurting after the 10-0 defeat they got from El Monte in their previous matchup back in March. Will the Panthers have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other softball content.