The Statesville Christian Lions will square off against the Salem Baptist Christian Vikings at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Statesville Christian is strutting in with some hitting muscle as they've averaged 6.2 runs per game this season.
On Friday, Statesville Christian earned an 8-3 victory over Sheets Memorial Christian.
Stephen Nielsen
| 03/07/25 @ Crossroads Christian | 5 |
| 04/04/25 @ Sheets Memorial Christian | 1 |
| 03/14/25 vs Burlington Christian Academy | 1 |
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 also tossed a walk, which is notable because Statesville Christian is 4-1 when he allows at most one walk, but 1-4 otherwise.
At the plate, Statesville Christian let Dominick Lycans and Jeremy Todd run wild. 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. Lycans is becoming a predictor of Statesville Christian's success: when he posts at least two runs the team is 2-1 (and 3-4 when he doesn't).
Meanwhile, Salem Baptist Christian posted their closest win since April 25, 2024 on Thursday. They skirted past North Hills Christian 16-14.
Eli Hedrick was a standout: he scored four runs and stole two bases while getting on base in four of his five plate appearances. Another player making a difference was Ck Boyles, who scored two runs and stole a base while getting on base in four of his five plate appearances.
Salem Baptist Christian picked up their first home victory, bumping their record up to 2-6. As for Statesville Christian, the win got them back to even at 5-5.
Tuesday's contest might come down to which pitcher can control the ball better. Statesville Christian has hit smart this season, having averaged an OBP of .433. However, it's not like Salem Baptist Christian struggles in that department as they've averaged .447. With both teams so capable at the plate, fans should be ready for an impressive hitting performance.
Statesville Christian skirted past Salem Baptist Christian 3-2 in their previous matchup back in May of 2024. Do the Lions have another victory up their sleeve, or will the Vikings turn the tables on them? We'll have the answer soon enough.
