HAYS, Kan. – The Hays Monarchs American Legion split their season opener with Hoisington Friday at the TMP Sports Complex. The Monarchs overcame an early 3-0 deficit and won the opener 7-4. They committed four errors and lost the second game 6-3.

The Monarchs (1-1) scored three in the third inning then three more in the fourth to take the lead then added one more in the fifth. Creighton Renz had three of the Monarchs eight hits while Gavin Schumacher drove in two runs. Cole Zimmerman did not allow an earned run while giving up two hits over six innings for the win.

Hoisington scored in five of the first six innings and led 6-0 in the second game before the Monarchs tried to rally late. Luke Ruder drove in two of the Monarchs three runs with a single in the sixth and seventh. Tate Garcia allowed five runs (one earned) on eight hits and suffered the loss.

The Monarchs travel to Larned for a doubleheader Monday.