The Chicago Academy Cougars will face off against the Von Steuben Panthers at 4:30 p.m. on Monday. Chicago Academy has given up an average of 10.1 runs per game this season, but Monday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Chicago Academy is headed into Monday's contest looking for a big change in momentum after dropping their fourth straight game on Friday. They came up short against Rickover Naval, falling 22-5.
Destiny Rodriguez made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and went 1-for-2 with one home run and one stolen base. Sariah Arlequin was another key player, going a perfect 2-for-2 with two runs.
Meanwhile, Von Steuben had to endure a five-game losing streak, but that streak is no more. They blew past Prosser 22-12 on Wednesday. The Panthers might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won four games by ten runs or more this season.
Leah Escalante was incredible, getting on base in five of her six plate appearances with four stolen bases, five RBI, and three runs. Those five RBI gave her a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Jeylanie Burgos, who got on base in all four of her plate appearances with two stolen bases, three RBI, and two runs.
Von Steuben kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 17 hits. They are a perfect 4-0 when they post 11 or more hits.
Von Steuben's win bumped their record up to 4-6. As for Chicago Academy, their loss dropped their record down to 4-9.
Monday's matchup will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Chicago Academy hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .328. However, it's not like Von Steuben struggles in that department as they've averaged .407. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Everything went Chicago Academy's way against Von Steuben when the teams last played back in May of 2024, as Chicago Academy made off with a 15-5 victory. Do the Cougars have another victory up their sleeve, or will the Panthers turn the tables on them? We'll have the answer soon enough.
