Hilliard Darby hasn't had much luck against Marysville recently, but that could start to change on Monday. The Panthers will head out on the road to square off against the Monarchs at 5:15 p.m. Hilliard Darby has given up an average of 6.7 runs per game this season, but Monday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Hilliard Darby managed to slip by Thomas Worthington the last time these teams faced off, but didn't have those same answers this time around. The Panthers lost 13-5 to the CARDINALS on Thursday. The Panthers have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.
Marley Grigsby was a force to be reckoned with on the mound despite the final result: she didn't allow a single earned run over 6.1 innings pitched. Furthermore, she didn't allow a single earned run, the first time she has blanked an opponent since April 1st.
At the plate, Kaydence Speelman was cooking despite her team's loss, going 3-for-4 with one stolen base, one run, and one RBI. Lorelai Gum was another key player, going a perfect 2-for-2 with two runs and one double.
Marysville came out on top against Pickerington North on Saturday thanks in part to the team's impressive four-run third inning. The Monarchs took their game against the Panthers 7-2. The victory made it back-to-back wins for the Monarchs.
Sienna Hutchins was incredible, going 1-for-4 with one home run, four RBI, and two runs. Another player making a difference was Ella Wood, who went 2-for-3 with one run and one RBI.
Marysville's win bumped their record up to 13-4-1. As for Hilliard Darby, their defeat dropped their record down to 13-5.
Monday's matchup will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Hilliard Darby hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .368. However, it's not like Marysville struggles in that department as they've averaged .417. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Hilliard Darby suffered a grim 16-8 defeat to Marysville when the teams last played last Wednesday. Can the Panthers avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.