Pine Forest extended their losing streak (dating back to last season) to seven on Wednesday, dropping them down to 0-5. They came up short against the Pinecrest Patriots, falling 17-2. The result was an unpleasant reminder to the Trojans of the 3-0 loss they experienced in the pair's previous head-to-head fixture back in March of 2018.
Pine Forest saw three different players step up and record at least one hit. One of them was Mason Winstead, who went 1-for-2 with one RBI.
As for Pinecrest, the win was the fifth in a row for them, bringing their record up to 5-1. The victories came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 9.6 runs over those games.
On Pinecrest's side, William Chopping was a major factor no matter where he played. He tossed two innings while giving up no earned runs or hits. Chopping has been consistent recently: he hasn't given up more than one earned run in three consecutive appearances. He was also solid in the batter's box, going 1-for-2 with two RBI and one double.
In other pitching news, Taylor Graves looked comfortable as he pitched one inning while giving up no earned runs or hits. What's more, he posted three strikeouts, the most he's had since back in April of 2025.
Back at the plate, Keaton Larsen was incredible, going 2-for-3 with one home run, three runs, and four RBI. He also hit a triple, marking his first of the season. Another player making a difference was Cody Graham, who went 3-for-4 with two runs, one double, and one RBI.
We've got plenty of inter-conference action coming up soon. Pine Forest is set to challenge their familiar foe Jack Britt at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Pinecrest will face off against rival Hoke County at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday.