For the second straight game, Carroll County will face off against Owen County. The Panthers will be playing in front of their home fans against the Rebels at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. Carroll County is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 8.1 runs per game this season.
Carroll County fought the good fight in their extra-innings game against Owen County on Tuesday but wound up with a less-than-desirable result. They fell just short of the Rebels by a score of 4-3. Give some credit to the fans of both teams: the last five times they've met, the home team has come away the winner.
For Owen County's part, Brody Hearn was a major factor no matter where he played. He looked comfortable on the mound, striking out seven batters over nine innings while giving up just two earned (and one unearned) runs off five hits (and only one walk). Hearn also tossed a walk, which is notable because Owen County is 2-1 when he allows at most two walks, but 5-7 otherwise. Hearn was also big at the plate, going 3-for-4 with one RBI. That's the most hits he has posted since back in March.
In other batting news, Connor Dezarn was excellent, getting on base in four of his five plate appearances with two runs and one triple. He has become a key player for Owen County: the team is 4-1 when he posts at least two runs, but 3-7 otherwise. The team also got some help courtesy of Wade Cook, who got on base in two of his five plate appearances with two stolen bases and one run.
Owen County's victory was their seventh straight at home dating back to last season, which pushed their record up to 7-8. Those home wins came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 8.4 runs over those games. As for Carroll County, their loss was their first in the district, dropping their district record down to 3-1 and their overall record down to 9-6.
Thursday's contest will be a test for both teams' pitchers. Carroll County hasn't had any issues making contact this season, having earned a batting average of .347. However, it's not like Owen County struggles in that department as they've averaged .316. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other baseball content.
