With every batter contributing at least one hit, Kansas University clubbed Park University, 8-2, in college baseball Wednesday at Hoglund Ballpark.
The Jayhawks, now 21-29, banged 12 hits and scored four runs in the bottom of the fourth to take the lead for good.
“Everyone contributed and that is a big deal for us,” KU coach Bobby Randall said. “We had some bad at-bats, but we had a lot of good ones, too.”
Down 2-0 entering the bottom of the fourth, the Jayhawks scored four runs on four hits and two errors in the inning. Designated hitter Casey Spanish delivered the key hit, smashing a home run over the left-center fence.
“That pitch came right down Broadway,” said Spanish, who went 3-for-4 with two RBIs. “I just got a good swing on it.”
Kevin Wheeler also homered for the Jayhawks. His solo shot came in the sixth.
Kevin’s brother, Clay, went 2-for-4.
“I’ve been trying to get hits and show what I can do,” Clay Wheeler said. “I try to get the most out of every at-bat. The season’s almost over and I want to get what I can out of the at-bats I get.”
Reliever Justin Wilcher, one of five KU pitchers, recorded the victory. Wilcher (3-9) pitched 31/3 shutout innings. KU’s four relievers didn’t allow a run in the 71/3 innings after the Pirates (24-14) opened with a 2-0 lead.
“Honestly, I had a sense that we weren’t ready before the game,” Randall said of facing Park. “They’ve got finals coming up and there was tension during batting practice.
The Jayhawks will play Kansas State this weekend in a three-game series. KU will play at K-State 7 p.m. Friday. K-State will visit Hoglund Ballpark on Saturday and Sunday.
