Vernon hasn't had much luck against Blountstown recently, but that could start to change on Thursday. The Yellowjackets will welcome the Tigers at 6:00 p.m. Vernon is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 9.9 runs per game this season.
While Vernon's victory against Bethlehem wasn't quite the blowout it was the last time the pair played, they still came out on top. The Yellowjackets narrowly escaped with a win as the squad sidled past the Wildcats 7-6. The Yellowjackets haven't had any issues with the Wildcats recently, as the game was their fourth consecutive victory against them.
Patrick Zurawski
| 03/16/26 vs Bethlehem | 10 |
| 03/05/26 vs Laurel Hill | 9 |
| 03/04/25 vs Poplar Springs | 8 |
| 02/10/26 vs Malone | 6 |
| 03/14/25 vs Altha | 6 |
Patrick Zurawski looked comfortable as he struck out ten batters over four innings while giving up just two earned runs off three hits. Those ten strikeouts gave him a new career-high.
At the plate, the team relied heavily on Russel Smith, who went 2-for-3 with three stolen bases, two runs, and two RBI. He has been hot, having posted at least one stolen base the last five times he's played. Another player making a difference was Caiden Coltrane, who went 2-for-3 with one stolen base and two RBI.
Meanwhile, Blountstown fought the good fight in their extra-innings game against Marianna on Tuesday but wound up with a less-than-desirable result. They fell just short of the Bulldogs by a score of 4-3.
Bowen Barber made the most of his time in the batter's box despite the final result and went 2-for-4 with one stolen base, one run, and one double. That double was his first of the season.
Blountstown's defeat dropped their record down to 9-6. As for Vernon, their win bumped their record up to 9-4.
Thursday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Vernon has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .469. However, it's not like Blountstown struggles in that department as they've averaged .439. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Vernon might still be hurting after the 14-4 loss they got from Blountstown in their previous matchup back in February. Will the Yellowjackets have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.
