COLUMBUS, Ohio — Marietta's path to the NCAA Division III College World Series hit a significant roadblock on Thursday, May 22, as the Pioneers fell to North Central (Ill.) 12-6 in the Mideast Regional at Ohio State University.
 
North Central's offense proved too much for Marietta to handle, pounding out 20 hits in the contest. Joe Wrzosek led the assault, going 4-for-5 with a home run, two RBI, and three runs scored. Sean Hope and Mike Modej supported the cause with three hits each, while Ken Ritter went 2-for-3 with three RBI. Paul Gonzalez chipped in with two hits, including a double, and drove in two runs.
 
On the mound for North Central, Matt Richards earned the win, allowing seven hits and four earned runs.
 
Marietta's starting pitcher Mike Kramer struggled against the North Central lineup, surrendering 12 hits and seven runs in just 4 1/3 innings of work. The Pioneer offense couldn't keep pace, with Bill Holmes and Drew Witouski managing two hits each in the losing effort.
 
The loss drops Marietta to 40-12-2 on the season and puts them in a precarious position in the double-elimination tournament. The Pioneers now face the daunting task of winning three consecutive games to advance to the World Series.