Ripon Christian kick started its defense of the 2012 Southern League co-championship with a hit parade on Tuesday.

The visiting Knights made quick work of Waterford, doling out 12 hits and piecing together a seven-run rally in the third en route to a 13-1 victory in five innings.

Jon Vander Molen was one of four players to tally two knocks for Ripon Christian (1-0, 2-4-1 overall), finishing 2 for 4 with two doubles and two RBIs. Dominic Nelson (2 for 3, 2 runs, 2B) and sophomores Danny Vander Molen (2 for 3, 2 RBIs, 2B), and Michael Myers (2 for 2, 2 RBIs, 2 runs, 2B) also rapped multiple hits.

Freshman Travis Vander Molen drove in two and plated a pair while striking out two in his one-inning start from the pitcher’s mound.  Winning pitcher Danny Vander Molen gave up four hits in three relief innings.

Ripon Christian will travel a block away today to square off with neighboring rival Ripon in a rematch of their Feb. 26 nonleague affair. The Knights will then finish out their league series with Waterford at home Thursday.

Nonleague

Lathrop 10, Franklin 1

The Spartans will go into Valley Oak League play with a two-game winning streak in which they broke the double-digit barrier in runs scored.

Lathrop (4-5) broke it open with a five-run rally in the bottom of the third to stake a 7-1 lead. Preston Rizo led the onslaught with a 3-for-4 effort that included two RBIs and a triple. Carlos Estrada went 2 for 2 with an RBI and a run. Starting pitcher Michael Pereznegron logged five innings of work, striking out eight and giving up a run on two hits. He also scored two runs on offense.