The Clinton Comets will take on Canastota at 4:30 p.m. on Monday. Clinton has given up an average of 8 runs per game this season, but Monday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Clinton fell victim to Oriskany and their airtight pitching crew on Friday. They came up short against the Skyhawks, falling 13-0. The Comets' defeat continues a trend for the squad, making it three in a row.
Meanwhile, winning is always nice, but doing so behind a season-high score is even better (just ask Canastota). Everything went their way against Hamilton on Friday as they made off with a 10-4 win. The victory was a breath of fresh air for Canastota as it put an end to their three-game losing streak.
Carter Relf was a major factor no matter where he played. He looked comfortable on the mound, striking out seven batters over three innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit (and not a single walk). He has been consistent: he hasn't tossed less than five strikeouts in five consecutive appearances. He was also solid in the batter's box, going 2-for-4 with two runs and two RBI. Those hits marked the first that he has got this season.
In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Blake Howard, who went 3-for-5 with four RBI, two doubles, and one stolen base. JT Kurak was another key player, going 2-for-5 with two runs and two RBI.
Canastota kept the outfield on their toes and finished the game with 12 hits. The team's really been improving in that area: they've now improved their hit total in three consecutive contests.
Canastota's win bumped their record up to 2-5. As for Clinton, their loss dropped their record down to 1-3.
The batters for both teams will have to hit smart on Monday as both have some strikeout artists on the roster. Clinton has been retiring batters left and right this season, having averaged 8.5 strikeouts per game. However, it's not like Canastota struggles in that department as they've been averaging an even more impressive 10.1 strikeouts. Considering how easily both teams rack up Ks, the hitters on both teams better bring their A-game into this one.
Clinton came up short against Canastota in their previous meeting back in May of 2025, falling 9-5. Can the Comets avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
