The Niagara Badgers will head out on the road to face off against the Crivitz Wolverines at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday. Niagara has given up an average of 11.2 runs per game this season, but Thursday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Three Lakes/Phelps hit Niagara with a seven-run second inning on Tuesday, which goes a long way in explaining the final result. The Badgers lost 14-4 to Three Lakes/Phelps. The Badgers have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.
Niagara saw five different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Paige Guardiola, who went a perfect 2-for-2 with two runs and one double. Shelby Zittlow was another, going 2-for-3 with two RBI, one run, and one double.
Meanwhile, Crivitz entered their tilt with Wausaukee on Tuesday with three consecutive wins but they'll enter their next game with four. They never let the Rangers get on the board and left with a 10-0 win. Considering the Wolverines have won six matchups by more than five runs this season, Tuesday's blowout was nothing new.
Taryn Tracy made a big impact no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, not allowing a single earned run and allowing only one hit while striking out seven over 4.2 innings pitched. She has been consistent: she hasn't given up more than one earned run in six consecutive appearances. She was also stellar in the batter's box, going 3-for-4 with three doubles and two RBI.
In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Kiya Brand, who got on base in three of her four plate appearances with three stolen bases, two runs, and one RBI. Those three stolen bases gave her a new career-high. Izzy Wesoloski also deserves some recognition as she snagged her first stolen bases of the season.
Crivitz always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .576. They are a perfect 6-0 when they post an OBP of .513 or better.
Niagara now has a losing record of 2-3. As for Crivitz, they picked up their first road victory, bumping their record up to 7-2.
Thursday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Niagara has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .536. However, it's not like Crivitz struggles in that department as they've averaged .586. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other softball content.
