The Central Missouri Jennies softball team is set to continue their MIAA schedule with doubleheaders against ranked opponents starting April 17. They will face the No. 11 Missouri Southern Lions at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. in Joplin, followed by games against No. 2 Pittsburg State on April 18 at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. The Jennies have shown strong performance recently, sweeping their last doubleheaders, improving their conference record to 7-5, and showcasing powerful batting statistics. Their head coach, Susan Anderson, is in her 20th season and has led the team to notable achievements in her tenure.

By the Numbers
  • Central Missouri's current record: 28-12 overall, 7-5 MIAA
  • Recent doubleheader results: Jennies won all four games (Northeastern State and Washburn)
  • Combined home runs in a game: 4, against Northwest Missouri (March 28)
  • Team batting average: .308 with 83 stolen bases on 96 attempts
  • Andi Siebeneck's record: 11-4
Yes, But

Despite their recent wins, the Jennies face tough competition against highly-ranked teams, which could challenge their current momentum. Previous matchups against Missouri Southern show mixed results, reflecting the competitive nature of the MIAA. Additionally, they will need to sustain their performance to overcome Pittsburg State's solid record.

State of Play
  • The Jennies are currently on a winning streak, having swept their last two doubleheaders.
  • Core players include Lexi Blackmon and Taylor Thompson, both leading in home runs.
  • Coach Anderson has built a deep roster with both veterans and newcomers contributing effectively.
What's Next

Following the doubleheaders against Missouri Southern and Pittsburg State, the Jennies are slated to play against the Missouri-St. Louis Tritons on April 21. Continued success in these upcoming games will be crucial for their standings and potential postseason aspirations.

Bottom Line

The Jennies' upcoming games represent a critical juncture in their season; strong performances against ranked teams can solidify their momentum and enhance their playoff prospects. With a mix of experienced talent and a solid recent track record, vigilance and consistency will be key to navigating this challenging schedule.