East Rutherford still going in 2A Baseball

Maybe the Cavaliers just needed to play all their games on the road. East Rutherford baseball is the only team still around in the playoffs after knocking off four teams in the playoffs and all of them on the road. East has downed North Rowan, Forbush, Reidsville and Smoky Mountain to reach the 2A Regional round.

Pitching and defense so far has been the key by allowing just seven total runs in four games. A three game series takes place this week with East hosting Friday (5/25).

As for baseball, R-S Central was knocked out in the second round of the playoffs by Lake Norman Charter. Central lost 3-2, but should be back strong next year. Chase went out 6-3 in the first round at West Lincoln and they too have a good bit of players coming back.

Softball

R-S Central was knocked out in the second round by Owen. The Warlassies had a great right handed wild tossing pitcher and a left handed catcher that was just as impressive. The Lady Hilltoppers claimed the SMAC title this season and have nearly everybody coming back including their two best pitchers.

East Rutherford was overwhelmed in the first round by Polk in what was supposed to be a close contest. East will have a lot of pieces to replace next season. A short handed Thomas Jefferson was also knocked out in the first round.

Girls soccer

Thomas Jefferson girls soccer proved that the 1A Southern Piedmont Conference programs are no joke. The Lady Gryphons won the first three rounds before being knocked out by Union Academy. North Moore, East Surry and East Montgomery all fell to Thomas Jefferson.

R-S Central took care of the first two rounds by beating West Wilkes and Polk before Central Academy picked them off, 4-0.

East Rutherford was dealt a tough first round match up in Central Academy, losing 3-2. They will have to wait another year to pick up their first ever girls soccer playoff win.

Neither girls soccer team should get too upset, Central Academy has made it to regionals and they both finished a respectable second and third behind Kings Mountain this season.

Well, the Coke 600 is this weekend. If Kevin Harvick's pit crew gets it all together, they might not can be beat. However, that is still the Achilles heel. Joey Logano, Brad Keselowski and Dale Earnhardt Jr. are possible choices this weekend. I wouldn't be surprised if Chase Elliott or Ryan Blaney made strong cases. I think I am choosing Kyle Larson though to get his first Cup win this weekend. Considering how he ran this past weekend and the fact that he is due.

Forest City Owls: Opening Day is May 30.