Benton extended their losing streak to three on Wednesday, dropping their season record down to 12-11 in the process. They lost 17-2 to the Anna-Jonesboro Wildcats. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against the Wildcats this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 16-1 back in April.
Benton saw five different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Carlie James (2026), who went 1-for-2 with one double and one RBI.
As for Anna-Jonesboro, the victory (which was their fifth in a row) raised their record to 24-3. They might be getting used to big wins seeing as the team has won 21 matchups by six runs or more this season.
On Anna-Jonesboro's side, Ruby Yates made a big impact no matter where she played. On the mound, she tossed four innings while giving up just two earned runs off five hits. Yates has been consistent for a while: she hasn't given up more than two walks in 19 consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, going 3-for-4 with two doubles and two RBI. That's the most hits she has posted since back in March.
In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Jayci Needling, who went a perfect 3-for-3 with one home run, six RBI, and two runs. Jayda Shepard was another key player, going a perfect 3-for-3 with two runs, two RBI, and one double.
Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Benton will welcome Fairfield at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday. The Rangers' pitchers better be ready for this one: the Mules have averaged an impressive 6.7 runs per game this season. As for Anna-Jonesboro, they will host Massac County at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday. The timing is sure in the Wildcats' favor as the team sits on four straight wins at home while the Patriots have been banged up by five consecutive losses on the road.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
