Riverview Gardens hasn't had much luck against McCluer recently, but that could start to change on Friday. The Rams are taking a road trip to square off against the Comets at 4:15 p.m. Riverview Gardens has given up an average of 16 runs per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Riverview Gardens is headed into Friday's contest looking for a big change in momentum after dropping their 12th straight game dating back to last season on Wednesday. They took a 24-19 hit to the loss column at the hands of Cahokia. On the bright side, the 19- run performance marked the Rams' highest-scoring game to date.
Logan Washam made the most of his time at bat despite the final result and got on base in all five of his plate appearances with four runs and one RBI. That RBI marked the first that he has brought in this season. Tyler Hill was another key player, getting on base in four of his five plate appearances with one run.
Meanwhile, McCluer hadn't done well against McCluer North recently (they were 0-9 in their previous nine matchups), but they didn't let the past get in their way on Thursday. The Comets won by a run and slipped past the Stars 6-5. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest win the Comets have posted since April 15, 2024.
William Speed made a splash no matter where he played. On the mound, he struck out 11 batters over 5.2 innings while giving up five earned runs off five hits. He has been nothing but reliable: he hasn't tossed less than six strikeouts in four consecutive appearances. He was also stellar in the batter's box, going 1-for-3 with four stolen bases and two runs. He is becoming a predictor of McCluer's success: when he posts at least two runs the team is undefeated (and 0-3 when he doesn't).
In other batting news, Xavier Hill was excellent, getting on base in three of his four plate appearances with three stolen bases and one run. He has become a key player for McCluer: the team is undefeated when he posts at least two stolen bases, but 0-3 otherwise. The team also got some help courtesy of Colt Gates, who got on base in three of his four plate appearances with two runs and one stolen base.
Riverview Gardens' defeat dropped their record down to 0-5. As for McCluer, the victory got them back to even at 3-3.
The batters for both teams will have to hit smart on Friday as both have some strikeout artists on the roster. Riverview Gardens has been retiring batters left and right this season, having averaged 7.2 strikeouts per game. However, it's not like McCluer struggles in that department as they've been averaging 9.3 strikeouts. Considering how easily both teams rack up Ks, the hitters on both teams better bring their A-game into this one.
Riverview Gardens couldn't quite get it done against McCluer in their previous matchup back in May of 2024 as they fell 5-0. Can the Rams avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
