The Willits Wolverines will face off against the Piedmont Highlanders at 5:00 p.m. on Friday. Both squads will be entering this one on the heels of a big victory.
Willits took a loss when they played away from home two weeks ago, but their home fans gave them all the motivation they needed last Tuesday. They were the clear victors by a 12-5 margin over Laytonville. The Wolverines haven't had any issues with the Warriors recently, as the game was their seventh consecutive win against them.
Lisa Arkelian
| 05/12/26 vs Laytonville | 2 |
| 05/07/26 vs Credo | 1 |
| 04/30/26 vs Point Arena | 1 |
| 04/28/26 @ Calistoga | 2 |
Lisa Arkelian spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered just two earned (and three unearned) runs on four hits and racked up eight Ks. She has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than two walks in four consecutive appearances.
On the hitting side, the team relied heavily on Abigail Sherf, who got on base in four of her five plate appearances with two stolen bases, four RBI, and two runs. That's the most RBI she has posted since back in March. The team also got some help courtesy of Alexandra Ramos, who got on base in all five of her plate appearances with one stolen base and two RBI.
Meanwhile, it can be hard to translate regular season success to the playoffs, but Piedmont had no problem doing just that on Tuesday. They put the hurt on the Eagles with a sharp 18-11 victory.
Eddie Elmquist was excellent, getting on base in five of her six plate appearances with four runs, two stolen bases, and one double. Makenna Small was another key player, getting on base in four of her five plate appearances with four RBI and two runs.
Piedmont was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .409. They are a perfect 6-0 when they post a batting average of .375 or better.
Piedmont's win bumped their record up to 13-10. As for Willits, their victory bumped their record up to 16-6.
Friday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Willits has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .493. However, it's not like Piedmont struggles in that department as they've averaged .564. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.
