The Monroeville Eagles will challenge the Hillsdale Falcons at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday. Monroeville is coming into the contest hot, having won their last six games.
Monroeville's pitching crew heads into the game hoping to repeat the dominance they displayed on Friday. They were the clear victors by a 7-0 margin over Western Reserve. Considering the Eagles have won 12 matchups by more than six runs this season, Friday's blowout was nothing new.
Veanna Helmstetter was a major factor no matter where she played. She kept things locked down with no earned runs or hits while striking out 14 over seven innings pitched. She has been consistent for a while: she hasn't given up more than two walks in 20 consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, going 1-for-3 with three runs and one stolen base.
In other batting news, Monroeville let Payton Weilnau and Taryn Tyler run wild. Weilnau went 1-for-3 with one triple, two RBI, and one run, while Tyler went 1-for-4 with two RBI, one run, and one double. That's the most RBI Weilnau has posted since back in March. Avery Rosser was another key player, going 3-for-4 with one RBI.
Meanwhile, after soaring to 12 runs the game before, Hillsdale was a bit more limited in their contest on Friday. They lost 9-2 to Strasburg-Franklin. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest loss the Falcons have suffered since April 19, 2024.
Kiki McFadden made the most of her time at bat despite the final result and went 1-for-3 with one home run. Another player making a difference was Jordyn Fickes, who went 1-for-2 with one home run.
Monroeville's victory was their third straight at home, which pushed their record up to 19-2. As for Hillsdale, they have been struggling recently as they've lost four of their last five games. That's put a noticeable dent in their 14-6 record this season.
Saturday's match might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Monroeville has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .483. However, it's not like Hillsdale struggles in that department as they've averaged .441. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Monroeville couldn't quite get it done against Hillsdale when the teams last played back in May of 2019 as they fell 5-0. Will the Eagles have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.
