The Tyner Academy Rams will head out on the road to challenge the Howard Tech Hstln Tigers at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday. Tyner Academy has given up an average of 17.8 runs per game this season, but Thursday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Polk County hit Tyner Academy with a four-run fourth inning on Tuesday, which goes a long way in explaining the final result. The Rams came up short against the Wildcats, falling 12-1. The Rams just can't catch a break and have now endured three defeats in a row.
Meanwhile, Howard Tech had to endure a seven-game losing streak, but that streak is no more. They were the clear victors by a 16-1 margin over Hardy Memorial on Wednesday. The Hstln Tigers not only won on Wednesday, but they posted their biggest win since April 18, 2025 (when they won 28-0).
Kush Patel made a splash no matter where he played. He tossed three innings while giving up no earned runs or hits. He has been nothing but reliable on the mound: he hasn't given up a single earned run in three consecutive appearances. He was also solid in the batter's box, going 1-for-3 with two stolen bases and one run. Those two stolen bases gave him a new career-high.
In other batting news, Mekhai Thomas was incredible, firing off two home runs, nine RBI, and three runs while going 3-for-3. Those nine RBI gave him a new career-high. Eusi Hamilton was another key player, going a perfect 2-for-2 with one triple, one stolen base, and one run.
Howard Tech always had someone on base and finished the game having posted an OBP of .680. That's the best OBP they've posted all season.
Tyner Academy's loss dropped their record down to 1-17. As for Howard Tech, their record is now 3-23.
Tyner Academy skirted past Howard Tech 19-18 when the teams last played last Wednesday. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Rams since the squad won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.
