By JT Keith

Artesia Bulldogs pitcher Jack Byers threw darts in his bullpen session while warming up for his April 8 start against the Roswell Coyotes on the road.

The bullpen session was merely a prelude to what Roswell’s batters would encounter.

Byers struck out the side in the first inning and racked up 16 strikeouts in all while hurling a six-inning no-hitter that ended on the 10-run rule as the Bulldogs coasted to a 14-0 victory. The win improved Artesia’s season record to 11-6.

“In the first inning, I knew it was going to be a good outing because I struck out my first three guys,” Byers said. “My curveball and fastball were my strengths in the game.

Byers faced only 21 Roswell batters and threw just 87 pitches, including 62 strikes.

Artesia coach Jackson Bickel said he originally planned on limiting Byers to 40 pitches but decided to let him go as far as he could after Byers said he felt great following a morning weight-lifting session.

“I felt good before the game,” Byers said. “My arm had a week to rest so I knew it was at its best potential.”

The 6-foot-3 junior is a three-sport athlete who plays wide receiver on the football team and guard/forward in basketball. He helped lead the Bulldogs to this year’s 4A state basketball championship.

Byers’ parents, Jack and Anna Whitmire, said watching their son throw a no-hitter made for a fun time. They said they avoided talking about or even thinking about what was happening until the game was over because they didn’t want to jinx the no-hitter.

Roswell coach Ernie Lujan was impressed by Byers’ performance.

“He was on point against us,” Lujan said. “He had us on our heels the whole night and was able to command his pitches in crucial counts. He is a kid with a bright future on the mound.”