Inspiration Academy is on a five-game streak of home wins (dating back to last season), while Barron Collier is on a ten-game streak of away wins (also dating back to last season): one of those streaks is about to end. A feisty cat fight will be fought as Inspiration Academy Lions challenge Barron Collier Cougars at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday. The two teams have allowed few runs on average, (Inspiration Academy 3.8, Barron Collier 3.1) so any runs scored will be well earned.
Inspiration Academy fought the good fight in their extra-innings game against IMG Academy Gray on Wednesday but wound up with a less-than-desirable result. They took a 5-2 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Ascenders. The match marked the Lions' lowest-scoring contest so far this season.
Jackson Bradley was a force to be reckoned with on the mound despite the final result: he didn't allow a single earned run over six innings pitched. Furthermore, he didn't allow a single earned run, the first time he has blanked an opponent since back in May of 2024.
At the plate, Inspiration Academy saw six different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Zak Hungle, who went 1-for-4 with one double and one RBI.
Meanwhile, it may have taken eight innings to finish the job, but Barron Collier ultimately got the result they hoped for on Thursday. They skirted past Gulf Coast 2-1. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest victory the Cougars have posted since February 11th.
Dylan Wiggins looked comfortable as he tossed three innings while giving up just one earned run off four hits. He has been nothing but reliable on the mound: he hasn't given up more than two walks in three consecutive appearances.
On the hitting side, Brody Graham was excellent, scoring a run while going 3-for-4.
Inspiration Academy has traveled a rocky road recently, having lost three of their last four games. That's put a noticeable dent in their 6-3 record this season. Barron Collier's win bumped their record up to 8-2.
Tuesday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Inspiration Academy has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .456. However, it's not like Barron Collier struggles in that department as they've averaged .448. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more baseball content.
