The Unaka Rangers will face off against the Unicoi County Blue Devils at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday. Both squads will be entering this one on the heels of a big victory.
Unicoi County will be up against a hot Unaka team: the squad just extended their winning streak to three. The Rangers put the hurt on Johnson County with a sharp 17-5 victory on Thursday.
Kimberly Proffitt made a big impact no matter where she played. She pitched 1.1 innings while giving up no earned runs or hits. She has been consistent recently: she hasn't given up more than two walks in four consecutive appearances. She was also solid in the batter's box, going 2-for-3 with two runs and one stolen base.
Unaka always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .556. They are a perfect 7-0 when they post an OBP of .513 or better.
Meanwhile, Unicoi County got the win against Cloudland on Friday by a conclusive 15-6.
Kaley Toney spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: she surrendered four earned (and two unearned) runs on eight hits.
At the plate, Aaliyah Engle was a standout: she went a perfect 4-for-4 with three stolen bases, two runs, and two doubles. That's the most stolen bases she has posted over her last 11 contests. Carly Baxter was another key player, going a perfect 4-for-4 with three RBI, one triple, and one stolen base.
Unaka's record is now 9-3. As for Unicoi County, their record now sits at 20-2.
Saturday's game will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Unaka hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .406. However, it's not like Unicoi County struggles in that department as they've averaged .415. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Unaka couldn't quite get it done against Unicoi County in their previous matchup back in April of 2024 as they fell 5-0. Can the Rangers avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
