OTC opened the scoring with a 4 run bottom of the first inning, behind 4 hits.  They added another 8 runs in the second inning to expand their lead.  Gavin Pausch (2.2IP, 4H, 1R, 4K, 0BB) started on the mound and got credit for the win.  Garrett Kuhn-Rice threw two-and-a-third innings in relief of Pausch.

Leading hitters for OTC were Ayden Olson, Owen Harig (2-3, 3R, BB), Drew Evavold (2-2, 2B, RBI, R, BB) and Pausch (2-2, 2RBI, 4R, 2BB).  Olson had 3 hits in 4 at bats, including a double, driving in 3 runs and scoring 3 times.  Kale Misegades had a double in 3 trips to the plate, driving in 3 runs and scoring twice.  Evavold and Olson each had a stolen base.

"What a great way to start the tournament for us,” commented OTC Head Coach Evan Meece.  “We had great pitching from Gavin and Garrett and had great approaches at the plate.  Our lineup was potent up and down the order and our defense was right on key.  I'm extremely proud of the way we played tonight and really proud of the way these boys have represented not only Ottertail Central, but the State of Minnesota too.  We came ready to play and will continue to show our OTC pride over the weekend."

OTC will play their second game of pool play on Friday afternoon against Fargo 61’s.