Weld Central is 1-6 against University since October of 2017 but they'll have a chance to close the gap a little bit on Friday. The Rebels will square off against the Bulldogs at 10:00 a.m. Weld Central has given up an average of 9 runs per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Saturday just wasn't the day for Weld Central's offense. They came up short against Wellington on Saturday, falling 13-0. Having soared to a lofty 14 runs in the game before, the Rebels' shutout was a dramatic turnaround.
Meanwhile, University waltzed into their matchup on Saturday with 12 straight wins... but they left with 13. They never let the Tigers get on the board and left with a 15-0 victory. The result was nothing new for the Bulldogs, who have now won 19 contests by six runs or more so far this season.
Sydney Goetzel was a major factor no matter where she played. On the mound, she struck out seven batters over three innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit (and not a single walk). She has been consistent for a while: she hasn't given up more than two walks in 12 consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, going 2-for-3 with two RBI, one run, and one double.
In other batting news, Jocelyn Chacon was a standout: she went a perfect 3-for-3 with four RBI, two doubles, and one run. That's the most RBI she has posted since back in August. Natalie Galindo was another key player, getting on base in all three of her plate appearances with three runs and one RBI.
University kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 14 hits. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now got at least nine hits in eight consecutive games.
Weld Central's defeat dropped their record down to 10-15. As for University, their record now sits at 23-2.
Friday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Weld Central has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .437. However, it's not like University struggles in that department as they've averaged .526. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Weld Central might still be hurting after the 16-6 loss they got from University when the teams last played back in September. Can the Rebels avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.