The Hernando Tigers will head out to face off against the Petal Panthers at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Hernando has given up an average of 8.6 runs per game this season, but Wednesday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Hernando managed to slip by Tupelo the last time these teams faced off, but didn't have those same answers this time around. The Tigers lost 15-2 to the Golden Wave on Friday. The game marked the Tigers' lowest-scoring matchup so far this season.
Donavan Dickson made the most of his time in the batter's box despite the final result and went 2-for-3 with one stolen base, one run, and one double. Another player making a difference was David Gentry, who went 2-for-3 with one run and one double.
Meanwhile, Petal came tearing into Thursday's contest with three straight wins (a stretch where they outscored their opponents by an average of 6.3 runs), and they left with even more momentum. Their pitchers stepped up to hand the Maroon Tide a 7-0 shutout. Considering the Panthers have won six games by more than six runs this season, Thursday's blowout was nothing new.
Deacon Crum looked comfortable as he tossed three innings while giving up no earned runs off two hits. What's more, he posted two strikeouts, the most he's had since back in February.
Hernando's defeat dropped their record down to 5-4. As for Petal, their victory bumped their record up to 10-3.
Wednesday's matchup will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Hernando hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .325. However, it's not like Petal struggles in that department as they've averaged .331. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Hernando got the 'W' when the teams last played back in February of 2024 against Petal by a conclusive 14-7 score. Do the Tigers have another victory up their sleeve, or will the Panthers turn the tables on them? We'll have the answer soon enough.
