Softball Game Preview: Buckeye Hawks vs. Desert Edge Scorpions

For the second straight game, Buckeye will face off against Desert Edge. Buckeye will head out to face off against Desert Edge at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. Buckeye knows how to get runs on the board -- the team has finished with ten runs or more in their past four contests -- so hopefully Desert Edge likes a good challenge.

Last Tuesday, Buckeye made easy work of Desert Edge and carried off a 12-2 victory. The result was nothing new for the Hawks, who have now won seven matchups by eight runs or more so far this season.

Caleila Kaluna

Batters Struck Out

03/25/25 vs Desert Edge	5
03/19/25 vs North	2
03/14/25 vs Coconino	0
03/10/25 @ Casa Grande	2
03/06/25 vs Estrella Foothills	4
+ 4 more games

Caleila Kaluna was a major factor no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, pitching six innings while giving up just one earned (and one unearned) run off two hits. What's more, she posted five strikeouts, the most she's had since back in April of 2024. She was also big at the plate, going 1-for-3 with four RBI, one triple, and one run. That triple was her first of the season.

In other batting news, Buckeye got a massive performance out of Kaleikaumaka Ellis, who scored three runs and stole a base while going 2-for-4. Ellis also hit two triples, marking her first of the season. Mya Loya was another key player, scoring two runs and stealing four bases while going 2-for-2.

Buckeye was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .393. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Desert Edge only posted a batting average of .250.

This is the second loss in a row for Desert Edge and nudges their season record down to 5-7. As for Buckeye, their record now sits at 7-3.

Thursday's game might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Buckeye has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .474. However, it's not like Desert Edge struggles in that department as they've averaged .511. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other softball content.