Schlarman is 0-9 against Hoopeston since April of 2016 but things could change on Friday. The Hilltoppers will take on the Cornjerkers at 4:30 p.m.
Schlarman is headed into Friday's match looking for a big change in momentum after dropping their fifth straight game on Wednesday. They came up short against Georgetown-Ridge Farm/Chrisman, falling 10-4.
Miles Crosby was cooking despite his team's loss, going 3-for-4 with one triple, one run, and one RBI. Colton Kotcher was another key player, going 1-for-2 with one stolen base and one run.
Meanwhile, Hoopeston can bid farewell to their four-game losing streak thanks to their game on Wednesday. They put the hurt on Cissna Park with a sharp 12-2 win. Considering the Cornjerkers' hitters had been struggling lately, the high-scoring outing was a much-needed turnaround.
Brayden Cornelius made a big impact while hitting and pitching. He looked comfortable on the mound, not allowing a single earned run while striking out seven over five innings pitched. He also tossed no earned runs, which is notable because Hoopeston is 2-1 when he allows at most two earned runs, but 4-14 otherwise. Cornelius was also solid in the batter's box, getting on base in three of his four plate appearances with one run and one RBI.
In other batting news, Dylan Judy was incredible, getting on base in three of his four plate appearances with three RBI, two runs, and one double. That's the most RBI he has posted since back in March. Another player making a difference was Dallas Sheppard, who went 3-for-5 with one stolen base, two RBI, and one run.
Hoopeston always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .541. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Cissna Park only posted an OBP of .400.
Schlarman's loss dropped their record down to 4-8. As for Hoopeston, their record now sits at 6-15.
Hoopeston's pitching crew has a crucial task ahead of them: Schlarman hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .341. It's a different story for Hoopeston, though, as they've only averaged .251. Will they be able to contain Schlarman's hitters?
Schlarman suffered a grim 13-0 defeat to Hoopeston in their previous matchup back in May of 2024. Can the Hilltoppers avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
