The West Park Panthers will head out to face off against the Antelope Titans at 4:00 p.m. on Friday. West Park's pitching crew has only allowed four runs per game this season, so Antelope's hitters will have their work cut out for them.
It was a proper cat-fight when West Park faced off against McClatchy on Wednesday. The Panthers fell just short of the Lions by a score of 3-2. The Panthers' defeat signaled the end of their four-game winning streak.
Jace Oliver was cooking despite his team's loss, going 2-for-3 with one home run.
Meanwhile, Antelope beat Grant 6-1 on Wednesday. The Titans haven't had any issues with the Pacers recently, as the game was their fifth consecutive victory against them.
Tristan Hofferber made a big impact while hitting and pitching. He looked comfortable on the mound, not allowing a single earned run and allowing only two hits while striking out 11 over seven innings pitched. He also tossed no earned runs, which is notable because Antelope is 6-1 when he allows at most one earned run, but 6-10 otherwise. Hofferber was also solid in the batter's box, getting on base in four of his five plate appearances with one stolen base and two RBI.
In other batting news, Adrian Martinez was incredible, getting on base in three of his five plate appearances with three stolen bases, one run, and one RBI. Antelope is undefeated when Martinez posts two or more stolen bases, but 9-11 otherwise. Andrew Hodson was another key player, getting on base in two of his five plate appearances with two stolen bases, one run, and one RBI.
Antelope always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .525. They are a perfect 5-0 when they post an OBP of .513 or better.
West Park's loss dropped their record down to 19-6. As for Antelope, they now have a winning record of 12-11.
Friday's match might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. West Park has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .508. However, it's not like Antelope struggles in that department as they've averaged .433. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
West Park took their win against Antelope when the teams last played back in March by a conclusive 15-4 score. Do the Panthers have another victory up their sleeve, or will the Titans turn the tables on them? We'll have the answer soon enough.
