Pike is 0-4 against Decatur Central since May of 2015 but things could change on Friday. The Red Devils will take on the Hawks in a tournament on Friday. Having both just faced considerable losses, both teams are looking to turn things around.
Pike is headed into Friday's contest looking for a big change in momentum after dropping their 18th straight game dating back to last season on Thursday. They came up short against Indianapolis Arsenal Technical, falling 26-20. On the bright side, the 20- run performance marked the Red Devils' highest-scoring game to date.
Lilianna Richardson led a balanced group of hitters, going 3-for-5 with two triples, three runs, and three RBI. The team also got some help courtesy of Ariel Hutchinson, who went a perfect 5-for-5 with three RBI, two runs, and one double.
Decatur Central had taken Whiteland down for two straight games at home, but that winning streak came to an end on Wednesday. The Hawks lost 19-9 to the Warriors. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest defeat the Hawks have suffered against the Warriors since May 4, 2022.
Ashyr Lawson was cooking despite her team's loss, going a perfect 5-for-5 with two triples, three RBI, and one run. Charlie Baldwin was another key player, going a perfect 3-for-3 with two runs and one stolen base.
Decatur Central has traveled a rocky road recently, having lost five of their last six matches. That's put a noticeable dent in their 7-9 record this season. As for Pike, their loss dropped their record down to 0-17.
Pike's speedy runners might be the difference in Friday's contest. The Red Devils have been swiping bases left and right this season, having averaged 2.8 stolen bases per game. It's a different story for Decatur Central, though, as they've been averaging only 1.4 stolen bases. Will they be able to secure the bases, or will Pike continue to outrun the ball?
Pike suffered a grim 10-0 defeat to Decatur Central in their previous meeting back in May of 2017. Will the Red Devils have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more softball content.