Woodington Extends Win Streak Behind Joyner’s Arm, Burkett’s Bat in Road Win at APA
KINSTON – The Woodington Raiders stayed hot Thursday night, using sharp pitching and opportunistic offense to knock off Arendell Parrott Academy, 6-1, and improve to 7-1 on the season.
Right-hander Jonas Joyner got the win on the mound, throwing four scoreless innings while giving up just one hit, walking three, and striking out three across 55 pitches. The Raiders leaned on a three-headed rotation as Winston Faircloth and Axel Ard closed the final three innings, each surrendering just one hit.
Joyner, the team’s two-way star, also added a pair of stolen bases. He now holds an eye-popping .722 batting average, .815 OBP, and 1.759 OPS through eight games, with 14 RBIs, 12 runs scored, and four doubles on the season.
Offensively, Jacob Burkett led the way with a 2-for-4 night and two RBIs. Daelin Tyndall added two hits and scored twice, while Jackson Taylor plated two runs on groundouts. The Raiders only had five hits in the contest but made the most of their opportunities, drawing six walks and stealing nine bases, including four from Heath McLawhorn.
McLawhorn didn’t record a hit but scored twice and continues to lead the team with 12 runs scored this season. He’s added 12 strikeouts on the mound and now boasts a .419 OBP with two RBIs and one triple.
Ethan Hoover added a single and scored once, while Cannon Sumner and Burkett also swiped bases. Sumner currently holds a .471 batting average and 10 RBIs, providing key consistency in the heart of the order.
Parrott was led by Bennett, Shack, and Thomas with one hit apiece. Starting pitcher Thomas took the loss after allowing four runs (two earned) on one hit and five walks over three innings.
The Raiders' defense remained sharp, with no errors committed and timely relief pitching. They now hold quality wins over Bethel Christian, Contentnea Savannah (twice), Arendell Parrott (twice), Frink, and Jones Middle.
Up Next: Woodington (7-1) travels to Contentnea Savannah School on Wednesday, April 16, looking to sweep the season series.
