The Wickliffe Blue Devils will face off against the Pymatuning Valley Lakers at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday. Both squads will be entering this one on the heels of a big victory.
Having struggled with four defeats in a row, Wickliffe turned things around against Beachwood on Tuesday. They blew past the Bison 14-4.
Wickliffe got a big performance out of Kaden Urban, who got on base in four of his five plate appearances with two runs, one stolen base, and one RBI. Another player making a difference was Alex Aheimer, who got on base in three of his five plate appearances with three runs and one stolen base.
Wickliffe was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .474. They are a perfect 7-0 when they post a batting average of .375 or better.
Meanwhile, Pymatuning Valley hadn't done well against Lakeside recently (they were 2-7 in their previous nine matchups), but they didn't let the past get in their way on Tuesday. The Lakers were the clear victors by a 12-3 margin over the Dragons. The home team had taken home the W every time these teams have met since April 27, 2023, but that streak is no more.
Ryan Croston was incredible, going 3-for-5 with two stolen bases, three runs, and three RBI. He has become a key player for Pymatuning Valley: the team is undefeated when he posts at least two runs, but 3-6 otherwise. The team also got some help courtesy of Sean Croston, who got on base in four of his six plate appearances with two stolen bases and two runs.
Wickliffe's win bumped their record up to 14-8. As for Pymatuning Valley, their victory bumped their record up to 16-6.
Saturday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Wickliffe has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .481. However, it's not like Pymatuning Valley struggles in that department as they've averaged .473. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.
