Tarboro hadn't done well against Martin County recently (they were 0-3 in their previous three matchups), but they didn't let the past get in their way on Thursday. The Vikings skirted past the Gators 6-5. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest win the Vikings have posted since March 11th.
Cole Craddock was a major factor no matter where he played. He struck out eight batters over 6.1 innings while giving up five earned runs off five hits. He has been consistent: he hasn't tossed less than eight strikeouts in five consecutive appearances. He was also big at the plate, getting on base in all three of his plate appearances with two stolen bases and one run. That's the most stolen bases he has posted since back in April of 2024.
Craddock wasn't the only one making solid contact as five players wound up with at least one hit. One of them was Stephen Ribustello, who went 1-for-3 with two runs, one stolen base, and one RBI. Ribustello is becoming a predictor of Tarboro's success: when he posts at least two runs the team is undefeated (and 3-6 when he doesn't).
Vikings
| 04/17/25 vs Martin County | 6-5 |
| 04/08/25 vs North East Carolina Prep | 7-0 |
| 03/28/25 vs Gates County | 13-3 |
| 03/24/25 vs Southeast Collegiate Prep Academy | 17-1 |
| 03/18/25 vs Bertie | 11-6 |
| + 3 more games |
Tarboro's victory was their eighth straight at home, which pushed their record up to 11-6. The home wins came thanks in part to their hitting performance across that stretch, as they averaged 11.5 runs over those games. As for Martin County, they have been struggling recently as they've lost three of their last four games. That's put a noticeable dent in their 16-4 record this season.
Tarboro is taking a road trip to take on Hobgood Charter at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday. The Vikings' pitchers better be ready for this one: the Raiders have averaged an impressive 9.8 runs per game this season. As for Martin County, they will be taking part in a tournament against West Carteret at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
