The East Columbus Gators will head out on the road to take on the North Duplin Rebels at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Each of these teams will be fighting to keep a win streak alive as East Columbus comes in on four and North Duplin on 14.
East Columbus is on a roll after a high-stakes playoff matchup on Thursday. They narrowly escaped with a win as the team sidled past Chatham Charter 8-6.
Gracie Coyle made a splash no matter where she played. On the mound, she didn't allow a single earned run and only two hits while striking out six over six innings pitched. Coyle has been nothing but reliable: she hasn't tossed less than five strikeouts in three consecutive pitching appearances. Coyle was also solid in the batter's box, scoring a run while going 1-for-4.
In other batting news, the team relied heavily on Chynna Patrick, who went 2-for-3 with a stolen base, two RBI, and a double. Kaley Mitchell was another key contributor, scoring two runs while going 2-for-4.
Meanwhile, in what's become a running theme this season, North Duplin gave their fans yet another huge victory on Friday. They put the hurt on Pender with a sharp 10-2 win.
Like East Columbus, North Duplin also got a great game from a two-way player: Lilly Fulghum. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out eight batters over seven innings while giving up just two earned runs off two hits. Fulghum was also big at the plate, going 3-for-4 with a home run, two triples, and three runs.
In other batting news, Reece Outlaw was incredible, scoring a run and stealing two bases while going 3-for-5. Another player making a difference was Sara Thomas Tucker, who scored a run while getting on base in three of her four plate appearances.
East Columbus' record is now 18-7. As for North Duplin, their record is now 16-1.
Tuesday's matchup might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. East Columbus has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .470. However, it's not like North Duplin struggles in that department as they've averaged .504. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
East Columbus might still be hurting after the 14-7 defeat they got from North Duplin in their previous meeting back in May of 2023. Can East Columbus avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
