BEREA — Marietta's Sean Risley, who had been moved down to sixth in the batting order, responded emphatically to the lineup change by going 3-for-4 with three RBI to lead the Pioneers to an 11-3 victory over Ohio Northern in the first game of the Ohio Athletic Conference Tournament.
 
The tournament opened on Thursday, May 15 at Baldwin Wallace.
 
The Pioneers (37-10-2) shook off their late-season slump and will face Baldwin Wallace in the winner's bracket on Friday.
 
Scott McVicar also had a strong game at the plate, going 2-for-3 with a triple and an RBI. Drew Witouski continued his recent hot streak, adding two hits including a solo home run to the Pioneers' cause.
 
On the mound, Jim Katschke (11-4) turned in a stellar complete-game performance, striking out four and scattering seven hits. His strong outing helped Marietta control the game from start to finish.
 
For Ohio Northern, Bill Welgoss stood out in the losing effort, going 3-for-4 with one RBI.