The last time Free State faced Leavenworth in a high school baseball game, the Firebirds cruised to a – brace yourself – 35-6 victory.

Darned right FSHS coach Mike Hill is dreading the rematch.

“It was one of those once-in-a-blue-moon situations,” Hill said. “We were down in the first inning, but the wind was blowing out, we got the ball up in the air. : I certainly think there’s some motivation on their part. We told our kids they need to be focused on that first game and not take Leavenworth likely. If you do, it’s one and done.”

Free State (17-3) will play host to Leavenworth (1-19) at 4:30 p.m. today at FSHS in the first round of a Class 6A regional. The winner gets Wichita Heights (14-6) or Washburn Rural (6-14) at 7 p.m. with a state berth on the line.

The Firebirds have been to state the past three years.

“These kids are so experienced,” Hill said. “We have four kids who started since they were sophomores. They’ve been through this before. They’re not overwhelmed by this by any stretch. They’re kind of ready for it. This is the time of the season they’re really geared for.”

State will run May 26 and 27 in Wichita.