COLBY, Kan. – The Hays Monarchs Optimist are headed to the Class AA State American Legion Baseball Tournament after their 14-0 win over Larned in the consolation finals Thursday night. The Monarchs scored four runs in the second inning then blew the game open with a nine run fourth and win the game by run-rule.

Zane Staab had three hits and Chase Werth drove in three runs. Trent Mayo picked up the win after holding Larned to one hit with five strikeouts and two walks.

Earlier in the day the Monarchs beat top-seeded Goodland 7-3 in eight innings to stay alive in the tournament. Goodland tied the game with three runs in the sixth. Chase Werth singled to drive in two after the Monarchs loaded the bases with three straight walks to open the eighth. Luke Ruder also drove in two runs. Ryan Ruder picked up the complete game win with 10 strikeouts and three walks. All three of the Goodland’s runs were unearned.

The Monarchs (20-10) have won six of their last seven games. The AA State Tournament begins Wednesday in Marysville.