| SERIES PREVIEW – Both teams are looking to advance to the LCS for the second time in franchise history. Tops in MWBL Fremont struggled against the 3rd best AL team Southbend during the season, losing 8 of 12 against the Lynx. Fremont brings the top offense to bear, but Southbend is no slouch at third on the AL, and recently added superstar Juan Soto atop the lineup. Fremont also tops the AL in pitching, with Southbend finishing 5th; however, a short series comes down to having the best pitchers, not the most good pitchers. Fremont has the edge in starters on the strength the #2s on both staffs; otherwise, #1 and #3 are pretty similar. In the bullpen, Southbend can throw out one of the best relievers this season in Drew Steckenrider, who converted 52 of 53 save chances. Fremont has better bullpen depth, however, if a lot of innings are required. Fremont holds the edge in fielding percentage at .982 compared to .979 for Southbend. |