Braxton Byrd leads the Blue Devils 23-3 over the Vikings

South Lenoir's dominance over Kinston in baseball continued on Tuesday evening as the Blue Devils handily defeated the Vikings 23-3 in just three innings.

Braxton Bird had a standout performance for South Lenoir, going 3-3 with three RBIs. The sophomore Matthew Rhodes also contributed to the team's victory, picking up his second win of the year by pitching two innings and giving up two hits, three runs, and two strikeouts.

On the other side of the diamond, freshman Exaviorn Croom was a bright spot for Kinston, going 2-2 with one RBI and three stolen bases. However, it wasn't enough to overcome South Lenoir's dominant offensive performance.

South Lenoir wasted no time in establishing their lead, putting up eight runs in the first inning and an impressive 15 runs in the second inning. Kinston managed to score one run in the first inning and two runs in the second inning, but it wasn't nearly enough to keep pace with South Lenoir's explosive offense.

This marks South Lenoir's 21st consecutive win against Kinston, with the Vikings' last victory against the Blue Devils coming on March 9, 2010.

After the game, South Lenoir coach David Combs noted that his team needs to improve their performance at the plate, defensively, and in throwing strikes. The Blue Devils currently hold a 3-2 record this season, and Combs commented on where his team stands..

"I think we have a great group of guys," Combs said. "They give everything they have to give every day."

Combs also had positive words for Kinston, acknowledging their energy, athleticism, and potential as a young team.

"They are a scrappy group," Combs said. "Their coach told me they are very young, so I see his excitement there. I think there is a lot of potential there."

This coming Friday, two conference matchups with South Lenoir (3-2) hosting Wallace Rose-Hill (2-5) and Kinston (0-4) will travel to East Duplin (5-1).