For the first time since 2019, Notre Dame baseball is bringing home a District XI 3A baseball championship. The Crusaders put together a commanding performance on Tuesday, rolling past Palmerton 13-3 to claim the crown in six innings.

After falling behind 1-0 in the first, Notre Dame erupted with a seven-run second inning, then followed it up with five more in the third to take firm control of the game. The offense delivered from top to bottom, racking up 14 hits and 11 RBIs in a relentless attack that kept pressure on Palmerton from the early innings.

Austin Casal was a driving force, going 2-for-4 with four RBIs, delivering a key hit during the second inning surge. Paul Smith had a standout day, going 3-for-3 with two RBIs and two stolen bases, sparking multiple rallies and causing problems on the basepaths. Jason Frederick chipped in with two hits and an RBI, while Christian Rivituso, Michael Wachter, and Colin Pevorus each added timely hits to keep the momentum rolling.

On the mound, senior right-hander Michael Martino was in control from start to finish. He threw a complete game, allowing just four hits and one earned run over six innings while striking out six. His poise and command were vital in quieting Palmerton’s bats and giving his team the space to build a comfortable lead.

The final out came in spectacular fashion. With two outs in the bottom of the sixth, senior Matthew Robertshaw sealed the victory with a full-extension diving catch in right field, drawing a roar from the Notre Dame dugout and setting off a celebration years in the making.

The Crusaders now turn their attention to the PIAA State Tournament. They will face Bristol from District I 1:05PM on Thursday at DeSales University.