The Timberlake Christian Tornadoes are headed away from home for the first time to take on the Temple Christian Crusaders at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Timberlake Christian is coming into the match on a six-game losing streak dating back to last season.
For whatever reason, it's the away team that's had the advantage when Timberlake Christian and Roanoke Valley Christian meet (four straight games heading into this one) and that held true again on Friday. Timberlake Christian lost 14-3 to Roanoke Valley Christian.
Billy Shumaker
| 03/21/25 vs Roanoke Valley Christian | 9 |
| 03/18/25 vs Ridgeview Christian | 7 |
| 03/07/25 vs Faith Christian Academy | 9 |
Billy Shumaker was huge no matter where he played even without the win. On the mound, he struck out nine batters over six innings while giving up four earned (and six unearned) runs off seven hits. He has been consistent recently: he hasn't tossed less than seven strikeouts any time he's pitched this season. He was also big at the plate, scoring a run and stealing three bases while getting on base in three of his four plate appearances.
Shumaker wasn't the only one making solid contact as two players wound up with at least one hit. One of them was Aaron Higey, who scored a run while going 2-for-4.
Meanwhile, after soaring to 14 runs the game before, Temple Christian was a bit more limited in their contest on Thursday. They came up short against Christian Heritage Academy, falling 11-1.
Timberlake Christian's defeat dropped their record down to 0-3. As for Temple Christian, their loss dropped their record down to 2-2.
The batters for both teams will have to hit smart on Tuesday as both have some strikeout artists on the roster. Timberlake Christian has been retiring batters left and right this season, having averaged 12.7 strikeouts per game. However, it's not like Temple Christian struggles in that department as they've been averaging 10.5 strikeouts. Considering how easily both teams rack up Ks, the hitters on both teams better bring their A-game into this one.
Timberlake Christian suffered a grim 7-1 defeat to Temple Christian in their previous matchup back in May of 2024. Can Timberlake Christian avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
