The Knippa Crushers will challenge the Three Rivers Bulldogs at 4:30 p.m. on Friday. Knippa has given up an average of 9.9 runs per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Knippa came up short against D'Hanis on Tuesday, falling 15-6.
Memphis G made the most of his time at bat despite the final result and went 2-for-3 with two triples, two runs, and two RBI. The team also got some help courtesy of Cole M, who scored a run while getting on base in all four of his plate appearances.
Meanwhile, Three Rivers came tearing into Tuesday's matchup with eight straight wins (a stretch where they outscored their opponents by an average of 7.3 runs), and they left with even more momentum. They were the clear victors by a 14-3 margin over the Trojans. The Bulldogs might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won nine contests by six runs or more this season.
Jayse Alvarado made a splash no matter where he played. He looked comfortable on the mound, striking out eight batters over four innings while giving up just one earned (and two unearned) runs off five hits (and not a single walk). That's the most strikeouts he has posted since back in February. He was also big at the plate, scoring a run and stealing a base while getting on base in all three of his plate appearances.
In other batting news, Grant Dragon was incredible, going 3-for-4 with five RBI, two runs, and one triple. Those five RBI gave him a new career-high. Evin Sheppard was another key player, scoring two runs and stealing two bases while going 1-for-3.
Three Rivers always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .594. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Charlotte only posted an OBP of .273.
Three Rivers' victory was their seventh straight at home, which pushed their record up to 14-5. Those home wins came thanks in part to their pitching effort, having only surrendered 3.7 runs on average over those games. As for Knippa, their defeat dropped their record down to 7-9.
Friday's game might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Knippa has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .550. However, it's not like Three Rivers struggles in that department as they've averaged .447. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Come back here after the game to get an analysis of the match and other baseball content.
