HAYS – The Hays Larks wrapped up a spot in both the Jayhawk League championship series as well as the NBC World Series championship week with a come-from-behind 6-5 win over Dodge City Wednesday night at Larks Park. The Larks (20-3, 16-3 JL) rallied for three runs in the eighth inning then held on as the A’s (14-7, 12-7 JL) loaded the bases in the ninth. Chad Smith got a ground ball to second to end the game and gave the Larks the Jayhawk League first half title.

Manager Frank Leo discusses Wednesday’s win over Dodge City

 

Austin O’Brien hit two home runs. His two-run shot in the fifth tied the game 3-3 then his solo shot in the eighth started the comeback rally.

Garrett McKinzie drove in the tying and go-ahead runs with a two-out single to center which scored Ty Redington and Devlin Granberg.

Shane Browning (2-0) threw two shutout innings for the win.

Smith gave up a single and hit two batters but gets his sixth save.

The Larks close out first half play in Dodge City Thursday night. They then begin second half play in El Dorado Saturday.