Bales’ homer lifts Hawks to victory over McCook

MCCOOK, Neb. – Brennen Bales (Nebraska City, Neb.) powered the Northeast Community College baseball team with one swing of the bat on Wednesday night as the Hawks (7-10) topped McCook Community College 9-6, before falling in the nightcap, 3-0 in McCook, Neb.

McCook jumped out to a 3-1 lead after the first two innings, but the Hawks crawled right back after adding two runs in the top of the third. Bales helped the Hawks score five runs in the top of the fourth, while collecting four RBI and a home run in the same inning.

The Indians made things interesting in the bottom of the six after scoring six runs, but the Hawks managed to tally a run in the top of the seventh to keep McCook off the scoreboard.

Ben Prediger (Calgary, Alberta) went 2-for-4 with a double and a run, while Colin Lynam (Springfield, Neb.) was 2-for-4 with two runs. Jeremy Schneider (Lovell, Wyo.) grabbed the win in relief. He threw two innings, allowing no earned runs off two hits, while striking out four batters.

The Hawks collected just one hit in the final game of the evening from Bales as he went 1-for-2 with a walk. Northeast had a tough time with the Indians pitching as they fanned 14 batters in the seven-inning affair.

Chris Mazzini (Parker, Colo.) was dealt the loss on the mound. He tossed two innings, allowing an earned run off no hits, while walking three and striking out two.

The Hawks welcome Hesston College for a doubleheader beginning at 1 p.m. on Feb. 12 for their home opener at Veterans Memorial Park in Norfolk.

For all news related to Northeast Community College athletics, visit northeasthawks.com for complete coverage. Fans can also follow the Hawks on Twitter @NortheastHawks for game-day coverage.