The Gilbert Tigers will take on the Campo Verde Coyotes at 6:00 p.m. on Friday. Gilbert is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 7.2 runs per game this season.
On Thursday, Gilbert came up short against Higley and fell 7-4. The Tigers haven't had much luck with the Knights recently, as the team has come up short the last four times they've met.
Carter Watson made the most of his time in the batter's box despite the final result and went 1-for-3 with two RBI, one run, and one double. Noah Dinero also deserves some recognition as he brought in his first RBI of the season.
Meanwhile, Campo Verde was able to grind out a solid win over Chaparral on Thursday, taking the game 5-2. The victory made it back-to-back wins for the Coyotes.
Justin Klingenberg looked comfortable as he tossed three innings while giving up no earned runs or hits. He has been consistent recently: he hasn't given up more than one earned run any time he's pitched this season.
On the hitting side, Ezekiel Zion was excellent, going 3-for-4 with one stolen base, two RBI, and one run. Wyatt Rauch was another key player, going 2-for-4 with three runs and one RBI.
Campo Verde's victory bumped their record up to 14-9. As for Gilbert, their defeat dropped their record down to 10-14.
Friday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Gilbert has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .434. However, it's not like Campo Verde struggles in that department as they've averaged .459. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Gilbert got the 'W' when the teams last played back in March of 2025 against Campo Verde by a conclusive 19-5 score. Will the Tigers repeat their success, or do the Coyotes have a new game plan this time around? We'll find out soon enough.
