For the second straight game, Highland will face off against Independence. The Scots will host the Falcons at 4:00 p.m. on Friday. The teams are rolling into the game with opposing streaks: Highland has struggled recently with three defeats in a row, while Independence will arrive with three straight victories.
Independence hit Highland with a eight-run fourth inning on Wednesday, which goes a long way in explaining the final result. The Scots lost 12-2 to the Falcons.
For Independence's part, Brandon Gutierrez made a splash while hitting and pitching. He looked comfortable on the mound, pitching four innings while giving up just one earned (and one unearned) run off six hits. Gutierrez was also solid in the batter's box, going 1-for-3 with two RBI, one run, and one double.
In other batting news, Independence let Aldo Salcedo and Jace Gillenwater run wild. Salcedo went a perfect 3-for-3 with three runs, one stolen base, and one double, while Gillenwater got on base in all four of his plate appearances with one stolen base, two RBI, and one run. Independence is undefeated when Salcedo posts two or more runs, but 3-8 otherwise. David Baralt Portillo was another key player, going 1-for-3 with two stolen bases, one run, and one RBI.
Independence always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .656. They are a perfect 8-0 when they post an OBP of .513 or better.
Independence's win bumped their record up to 13-8. As for Highland, their loss dropped their record down to an identical 13-8.
The batters for both teams will have to hit smart on Friday as both have some strikeout artists on the roster. Highland has been retiring batters left and right this season, having averaged 6.7 strikeouts per game. However, it's not like Independence struggles in that department as they've been averaging an even more impressive 7 strikeouts. Considering how easily both teams rack up Ks, the hitters on both teams better bring their A-game into this one. Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.
