In a thrilling Section 3B playoff game, the Prior Lake Jays held off the Chanhassen Red Birds for a 5-3 victory on Friday night, eliminating Chanhassen from the playoffs.
The Jays struck early, capitalizing on an error in the first inning to take a 1-0 lead. Their offense continued to roll in the third inning, with Jonah Hoeg delivering a clutch single that brought in two more runs, extending the lead to 3-0.
Starting pitcher Tyus Smith was in command, striking out 10 batters over five and two-thirds innings. He gave up only one hit but allowed three runs, walking three in the process.
Chanhassen’s Austin Kemp tried to keep his team in the game, pitching seven and one-third innings. He struck out nine but surrendered nine hits and five runs (four earned).
In the sixth inning, the Red Birds began their comeback attempt. A sacrifice fly brought in their first run, followed by a two-run homer from Johnny Checheris, which narrowed the gap to 5-3. Checheris led the Red Birds offensively, driving in two runs and going 1-for-4.
However, the Jays’ bullpen, led by Brady Baur, shut down any further scoring chances. Baur was dominant in relief, pitching three and one-third innings of scoreless ball, striking out seven and walking two without allowing a hit.
Offensively, the Jays were led by Hoeg, who went 2-for-4 with two RBIs. Jeff Butler, Ross Hebel, Nate Bodine, and Hoeg each collected two hits, showcasing the depth of the lineup. Lance Goeschel was a menace on the base paths, stealing two bases as part of the Jays’ total of four stolen bases. Defensively, the Jays were flawless, with Goeschel making 17 plays without a single error.
With this victory, the Prior Lake Jays advance to face the Chaska Cubs in another Section 3B playoffs elimination game. This crucial matchup will take place on Sunday, August 4th, at 2:00 pm at Poppitz Field in Victoria. The winner will earn a berth in the state tournament, while the loser’s season will come to an end.