Baseball: Jefferson, Banks split doubleheader, rubber game set for tomorrow

The Dragons (12-9) scored six times in the final two innings in the opener to win 6-0. Banks County then won a pitching dual in the nightcap, 1-0, as Brenton Ruark tossed a two-hit shutout and struck out 12.

The Leopards scored their only run of game two in the top of the seventh after a throw from catcher to third went into left field, allowing Billy Hudgins — who doubled to start the inning — to score.

Jefferson pitcher Micah Carpenter matched Ruark’s two-hitter as he went the distance and struck out 13. Carpenter allowed just two base runners.

The Dragons also received stellar pitching in the opener as Max Ford threw a two-hit shutout.

The game was tied at zero until the top of the sixth inning when Jefferson scored three two-out runs.

Carpenter and Andrew Bartek both reached base via walk and scored when Tyler Cole ripped a double off the left field wall. Andy Nicolas followed two batters later with an RBI single, and Jefferson led 3-0.

Carpenter, Austin Thompson and Nicolas all added RBI singles in the top of the seventh.

Jefferson and Banks County will resume this series tomorrow at 5 p.m. in Homer. The winner advances to the Region 8-AA semifinals and also clinches a spot in the state tournament.