The Matchup
Looking to find their first conference win of the season, the UBC Thunderbirds (1-16, 0-6) will trek south to Ashland, Oregon to play the Southern Oregon Raiders (21-4, 8-1).
The teams will play back-to-back doubleheaders on Friday, March 24 and Saturday, March 25.
You can watch a live stream of the games by clicking on this link.
Last Action
The 'Birds were supposed to play their conference home opener over the weekend at Softball City in Surrey, but due to soggy weather the games were moved to Sandy, Oregon.
The Thunderbirds ended up playing a Sunday triple-header against Oregon Tech. Despite a tough battle, under less than ideal conditions, the 'Birds dropped the three games by scores of 8-2, 9-3 and 5-1.
The Raiders are on a nine game winning streak and were recently ranked number 18 in the NAIA's Top 25 coach's poll.
By the Numbers
.452 – 'Bird outfielder
Hillary Strelau's batting average to this point in the season. The UBC leadoff hitter is getting on base at a phenomenal rate, she just needs her teammates to start driving her in with more frequency.
22-4 – is what the Thunderbirds have been outscored in fourth innings this season. The 'Birds need to shore up their pitching and defense in the middle innings to stay in games.
Players To Watch
Lindsey Ogilvie – the top pitcher for the 'Birds also leads the 'Blue and Gold' with 2 home runs so far this season.
Claire Eccles – despite playing on a sore ankle, Eccles is sporting a monstrous 1.303 slash line.
Coach's Take
"We have a lot of nagging injuries that don't show up on the game sheet," says UBC head coach
Gord Collings. "We are being troopers and fighting through it but it's effecting us. If we can get a couple wins on the board and stay positive until we are healthy, we'll be alright."
