Jefferson Academy is 0-7 against Forge Christian since September of 2022 but things could change on Friday. The Jaguars are taking a road trip to take on the Fury at 4:00 p.m. Jefferson Academy is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 7.2 runs per game this season.
Having struggled with four defeats in a row, Jefferson Academy turned things around against Jefferson on Wednesday. They were the clear victors by a 16-6 margin over the Saints. The high-flying hitting performance was a huge turnaround for the Jaguars considering their two-run performance the game before.
Aubrey Cox was a major factor no matter where she played. She struck out eight batters over six innings while giving up five earned (and one unearned) runs off seven hits. That's the most strikeouts she has posted since back in August. She was also big at the plate, getting on base in three of her five plate appearances with two runs.
In other batting news, Ellie Arnold was a standout: she got on base in all four of her plate appearances with four runs, two stolen bases, and two RBI. Rilea Cordova was another key player, going a perfect 4-for-4 with four RBI, two runs, and one stolen base.
Jefferson Academy kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 17 hits. That's the most hits they've managed all season.
Meanwhile, Forge Christian had just enough and edged out Arvada 4-2 on Thursday. The Fury haven't had any issues with the Bulldogs recently, as the game was their fifth consecutive win against them.
Julianna Alfaro spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered just two earned runs on five hits and racked up seven Ks. She has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't given up more than two walks in six consecutive appearances.
On the hitting side, Vivian Stults was excellent, going a perfect 2-for-2 with one stolen base and one run.
Jefferson Academy's record is now 6-14-1. As for Forge Christian, their record now sits at 19-3.
Friday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Jefferson Academy has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .501. However, it's not like Forge Christian struggles in that department as they've averaged .521. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Jefferson Academy suffered a grim 18-2 defeat to Forge Christian when the teams last played last Tuesday. Can the Jaguars avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
