Pinecrest hasn't had much luck against Richmond recently, but that could start to change on Friday. The Pinecrest Patriots will host the Richmond Raiders at 6:00 p.m. Pinecrest has given up an average of 15.2 runs per game this season, so hopefully the team got some pitching drills in this week.
Pinecrest lost 19-9 to Purnell Swett on Thursday.
Arianna Reddinger was cooking despite her team's loss, going 2-for-4 with one triple, two RBI, and one run. The team also got some help courtesy of Kia Todd, who scored two runs while going 2-for-3.
Meanwhile, Richmond came into Tuesday's game having lost five straight, but that streak is now in the rearview. They came out on top in a nail-biter against Southern Lee on Tuesday, sneaking past 7-5. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest win the Raiders have posted since March 12, 2024.
Madee Pearson was a major factor while hitting and pitching. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out 13 batters over seven innings while giving up three earned (and two unearned) runs off six hits (and only one walk). She has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than one walk in three consecutive appearances. She was also solid in the batter's box, scoring a run and stealing a base while going 2-for-4.
In other batting news, Hayden Robinson was a standout: she went 2-for-4 with two RBI and one double. Another player making a difference was Kinsie Lyerly, who scored a run while going 2-for-4.
Richmond was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .429. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Southern Lee only posted a batting average of .267.
Richmond's first victory this season bumped their record up to 1-3. As for Pinecrest, their defeat dropped their record down to an identical 1-3.
Richmond's pitching crew has a crucial task ahead of them: Pinecrest has been making plenty of contact this season, having averaged 9 hits per game. It's a different story for Richmond, though, as they've been averaging 10 hits. Given Pinecrest's sizable advantage in that area, Richmond will need to find a way to close that gap.
Pinecrest came up short against Richmond when the teams last played back in April of 2024, falling 14-11. Can Pinecrest avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
