Greene Central Explodes for Seven-Run Sixth Inning to Defeat West Craven in Season Opener
Greene Central Explodes for Seven-Run Sixth Inning to Defeat West Craven in Season Opener
Snow Hill — Greene Central opened the 2026 baseball season Tuesday night with a statement win, erupting for seven runs in the sixth inning to defeat West Craven 9-3 at home.
The Rams finished with nine runs on eight hits, while West Craven managed three runs on five hits in the season opener.
Greene Central’s lineup was sparked by its senior leadership — Riley Radford, Noah Roberson, and Will Radford, three veterans who were part of the program’s 2A state championship team two seasons ago.
After graduating six seniors from that title squad, the Rams spent last season relying heavily on freshmen and still produced a 13-9 record. That young group is now mostly sophomores and juniors with a full year of varsity experience, giving Greene Central one of its most balanced rosters in recent years.
West Craven struck first in the opening inning, plating two runs in the top of the first.
The Eagles collected a pair of hits and capitalized on opportunities to take the early lead while Greene Central starter Logan Burress worked through early traffic.
Burress settled down quickly, allowing four hits and two runs (one earned) across five innings, while striking out seven batters and walking three.
Greene Central answered in the fourth inning, when senior Riley Radford delivered the game’s biggest early swing.
After Roberson reached base and advanced to second on an error, Radford launched a two-run home run to left field, tying the game 2-2.
Radford finished the night 2-for-3 with three RBIs, a home run, and a triple, accounting for seven total bases.
Sixth inning explosion
The game remained tight until the sixth inning, when Greene Central broke it open with seven runs.
The rally began with Austin Oliver reaching base, followed by pressure that forced West Craven into difficult situations.
Key moments in the inning included:
Sie Harris RBI single that scored Logan Burress
Mason Dillon sacrifice fly that brought home Austin Oliver
Noah Roberson two-run double to center field
Will Radford RBI single
Riley Radford RBI triple to cap the rally
Roberson played a major role in the offensive outburst, finishing 1-for-3 with two RBIs, two runs scored, and a walk.
Will Radford added a hit and an RBI, while also helping control the game defensively behind the plate.
Offensive production
Greene Central’s lineup produced contributions throughout the order.
Rams offensive leaders
Riley Radford: 2-for-3, HR, triple, 3 RBI, 2 runs
Noah Roberson: 1-for-3, double, 2 RBI, 2 runs, BB
Logan Burress: 1-for-3, run scored
Austin Oliver: 1-for-2, run scored, BB
Sie Harris: 1-for-3, RBI, run scored
Will Radford: 1-for-4, RBI
Mason Dillon: sacrifice fly, RBI
As a team, the Rams also drew five walks.
Pitching closes it out
After Burress’ strong start, Greene Central turned to its bullpen.
Sutton Harris earned the win with 1 inning, allowing 1 hit and 1 unearned run while striking out one.
Riley Radford closed the game with a dominant inning, striking out three batters without allowing a hit.
The Rams’ pitching staff combined for 11 strikeouts.
Looking ahead
The season opener provided an encouraging glimpse of Greene Central’s potential.
The Rams return a roster loaded with experience despite its youth. After a season spent developing freshmen into everyday players, Greene Central now features a lineup filled with battle-tested sophomores and juniors alongside championship-tested seniors.
If the Rams’ sixth-inning eruption is any indication, Greene Central’s mix of leadership and experience could make them a dangerous team this season.