The Tonopah Valley Phoenix are taking a road trip to take on the Phoenix Christian Cougars at 3:45 p.m. on Friday. Tonopah Valley is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 9.3 runs per game this season.
Tonopah Valley came into their game on Thursday off a hard-fought close win, but unfortunately suffered a serious change of fortune. They lost 10-0 to Yuma Catholic. Having soared to a lofty 13 runs in the game before, the Phoenix's shutout was a dramatic turnaround.
Tonopah Valley saw two different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Morgan Green, who went a perfect 2-for-2 with one stolen base and one double.
Meanwhile, winning is always nice, but doing so behind a season-high score is even better (just ask Phoenix Christian). Their pitcher stepped up to hand Madison Highland Prep a 30-0 shutout on Wednesday. The result was nothing new for the Cougars, who have now won six matchups by six runs or more so far this season.
Karly Van Metre made a big impact no matter where she played. She looked comfortable on the mound, striking out seven batters over three innings while giving up no earned runs or hits (and not a single walk). Van Metre was also big at the plate, scoring two runs and stealing two bases while going 1-for-4. What's more, she posted three RBI, the most she's had since back in March of 2024.
In other batting news, Phoenix Christian got a massive performance out of Hannah Fisher, who scored five runs and stole three bases while getting on base in all five of her plate appearances. Those five runs gave Fisher a new career-high. Brianna Guerrero was another key player, scoring five runs and stealing two bases while getting on base in four of her five plate appearances.
Tonopah Valley has traveled a rocky road recently, having lost four of their last five contests. That's put a noticeable dent in their 3-4 record this season. Phoenix Christian's record is now 8-1.
Friday's game might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Tonopah Valley has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .561. However, it's not like Phoenix Christian struggles in that department as they've averaged .614. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Tonopah Valley suffered a grim 9-3 defeat to Phoenix Christian in their previous matchup on March 12th. Can Tonopah Valley avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.
