Harvey hasn't had much luck against Kirtland recently, but that could start to change on Tuesday. The Red Raiders will face off against the Hornets at 5:00 p.m. Both squads will be entering this one on the heels of a big victory.
Harvey came out on top against Harding on Monday thanks in part to the team's impressive 12-run sixth inning. The Red Raiders were the clear victors by a 19-6 margin over the Skippers. The home team had taken home the W every time these teams have met since April 11, 2019, but that streak is no more.
Jurein Morales looked comfortable as he struck out seven batters over 3.2 innings while giving up just two earned (and three unearned) runs off seven hits (and not a single walk).
Erik Perez
| 03/29/25 @ John Hay | 4 |
| 04/21/25 @ Harding | 2 |
| 04/03/25 vs Harding | 2 |
| 04/01/25 @ Lakeside | 1 |
At the plate, Erik Perez was a standout: he went 3-for-5 with five RBI, two runs, and one stolen base. Harvey is undefeated when Perez posts two or more runs, but 2-5 otherwise. Another player making a difference was Ryan Delaney, who got on base in four of his five plate appearances with two stolen bases, three runs, and two RBI.
Harvey was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .441. That's the best batting average they've posted all season.
Meanwhile, Kirtland put another one in the bag on Thursday to keep their perfect season alive. Everything went their way against Madison as they made off with a 13-3 victory.
Kirtland also got a great performance from Drew Thaler as he tossed five innings while giving up just two earned (and one unearned) runs off six hits. What's more, Thaler posted four strikeouts, the most he's had since back in April of 2024.
On the hitting side, the team relied heavily on Tyler Turk, who went 3-for-4 with three runs and two doubles. That's the most doubles he has posted since back in April of 2024. Ben Difranco was another key player, going 1-for-2 with two runs, one stolen base, and one double.
Kirtland's win was their fifth straight at home, which pushed their record up to 7-0. As for Harvey, the victory got them back to even at 5-5.
Tuesday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Harvey has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .458. However, it's not like Kirtland struggles in that department as they've averaged .465. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Harvey might still be hurting after the 23-0 loss they got from Kirtland in their previous matchup back in May of 2024. Can the Red Raiders avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
