Bethel Christian hasn't had much luck against Cornerstone Christian recently, but that could start to change on Friday. The Kings will face off against the Crusaders at 2:45 p.m. Both squads will be entering this one on the heels of a big victory.
Last Tuesday, Bethel Christian made easy work of Packinghouse Christian Academy and carried off a 13-3 victory. The win continues a trend for the Kings in their matchups with the Bears: they've now won seven in a row.
Tyler Backstrom
| 03/19/25 @ Packinghouse Christian Academy | 4 |
| 04/01/25 vs Packinghouse Christian Academy | 2 |
| 03/27/25 vs Sherman Indian | 2 |
| 03/21/25 vs Southlands Christian | 1 |
| 03/03/25 vs Crossroads Christian | 1 |
Tyler Backstrom was a major factor no matter where he played. He looked comfortable on the mound, tossing four innings while giving up just two earned runs off two hits. Backstrom was also solid in the batter's box, scoring two runs while going 2-for-2. Bethel Christian is undefeated when Backstrom posts two or more runs, but 1-5 otherwise.
In other batting news, Bethel Christian got a big performance out of Jonah Thompson, who scored two runs while going 2-for-3. Thompson has become a key player for the Kings: the team is 4-2 when he posts at least two runs, but 0-3 otherwise. Kaeden Milhouse was another key player, scoring two runs and stealing a base while getting on base in three of his four plate appearances.
Bethel Christian always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .639. They are a perfect 4-0 when they post an OBP of .513 or better.
Meanwhile, Cornerstone Christian got the win against Temecula Prep on Thursday by a conclusive 15-3. The victory made it back-to-back wins for the Crusaders.
Like Bethel Christian, Cornerstone Christian also got a great game from a two-way player: Alec O'Sullivan. On the mound, he struck out seven batters over five innings while giving up just one earned (and two unearned) runs off five hits. O'Sullivan has been consistent : he hasn't given up more than one earned run in seven consecutive appearances. He was also big at the plate, scoring three runs and stealing two bases while getting on base in three of his four plate appearances.
In other batting news, Steel Hoham was incredible, going 3-for-4 with four RBI, two runs, and one stolen base. Those four RBI gave him a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Lucas Gomez-Creguer, who went 2-for-4 with two stolen bases, four RBI, and one double.
Bethel Christian's record is now 4-5. As for Cornerstone Christian, their record now sits at 11-4.
Friday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Bethel Christian has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .557. However, it's not like Cornerstone Christian struggles in that department as they've averaged .436. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Bethel Christian might still be hurting after the 18-2 defeat they got from Cornerstone Christian in their previous matchup back in April of 2024. Can the Kings avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
