BILLINGS – The Billings Scarlets are starting to play better at exactly the right time.
The Scarlets got five strong innings from Andy Larsen, and gave him enough run support to beat the rival Royals 4-2 Saturday night in a conference make-up game at Dehler Park.
Larsen gave up just two runs while striking out four to earn the win. Dylan Johnson came on in relief to toss two scoreless innings for the save. Both also had good days at the plate, as each went 2-3 with an RBI and a run scored.
The Scarlets took a 2-0 lead on an Aaron Seward two-run single in the bottom of the second inning. Larsen’s RBI single made it 3-0 after three.
The Royals finally cracked the scoreboard in the top of the fifth, with an RBI single from Dawson Smith followed by an RBI groundout from Jayden Kay. But they wouldn’t get any closer.
Johnson’s RBI double provided key insurance in the bottom of the fifth to put the Scarlets back up two at 4-2.
The Royals now lead the season series 2-1. The two teams are scheduled to meet one final time in the regular season – Friday, July 20 at 7:30 p.m.
