The Salem Baptist Christian Vikings will head out on the road to take on the Statesville Christian Lions at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Salem Baptist Christian has given up an average of 13.5 runs per game this season, but Tuesday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Salem Baptist Christian is headed into the match having just posted their closest victory since April 25, 2024 on Thursday. They skirted past North Hills Christian 16-14.
Salem Baptist Christian got a massive performance out of Eli Hedrick, who scored four runs and stole two bases while getting on base in four of his five plate appearances. Ck Boyles was another key player, scoring two runs and stealing a base while getting on base in four of his five plate appearances.
Meanwhile, Statesville Christian was able to grind out a solid win over Sheets Memorial Christian on Friday, taking the game 8-3. With that victory, the Lions brought their scoring average up to 6.2 runs per game.
Stephen Nielsen spent all seven innings on the mound, and it's clear why: he surrendered only one earned (and two unearned) runs on four hits and racked up 14 Ks. He has been consistent recently: he hasn't given up more than one walk in three consecutive appearances.
On the hitting side, Dominick Lycans and Jeremy Todd did most of the damage at the plate: Lycans scored two runs and stole a base while going 1-for-2, while Todd scored a run and stole a base while going 2-for-4. Statesville Christian is 2-1 when Lycans posts two or more runs, but 3-4 otherwise.
Salem Baptist Christian picked up their first home win, bumping their record up to 2-6. As for Statesville Christian, the victory got them back to even at 5-5.
Tuesday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Salem Baptist Christian has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .447. However, it's not like Statesville Christian struggles in that department as they've averaged .433. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance. Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other baseball content.