NEW ALBANY, Ind. – The IU Southeast baseball team opened conference play in 2017 much like they did in 2016, as they swept the opening day of play on Friday.

The Grenadiers (6-4, 2-0 RSC) defeated Asbury 5-3 and 7-4 with strong outings from the IU Southeast starters.

In game one, IU Southeast jumped out to a 2-0 lead when Asbury's defense failed them. Richard Rodriguez scored after a wild throw from third and then a wild pitch brought in Cody Maloon.

Asbury (6-8, 0-2 RSC) tied the game in the top of the fifth only to see the Grenadiers take the lead right back in the bottom of the frame. After Julian Flanary reached on a error and advanced to third on a bunt and flyout, Nicholas Lugo hit an RBI single to make it 3-2 IU Southeast.

Asbury tied the game in the top of the sixth when Colton Black hit an RBI double.

But the Grenadiers roared right back in the bottom of the sixth. Hector Marmol led off with a double and Clay Benefield was intentionally walk. Flanary came through again, this time with an RBI double to give IU Southeast a 5-3 lead that they would not relinquish.

Alex Schoettmer got the win in relief of Brandon Nylin who was solid. Nylin worked five and two-thirds and gave up three runs on seven hits while striking out seven and walking a batter.

In game two, IU Southeast scored first once again on a sacrifice bunt from Richard Rodriguez. Hector Marmol would plate another run in the third inning on a single.

Then he helped break the game open in the four-run fourth inning. After Jason Bronnert reached on a walk and Lugo singled, Bronnert came around to score after an Asbury error and Lugo came in after a wild pitcher. Marmol followed with a solo home run to right and Cody Maloon hit an RBI double to make it 7-1.

Chase Vanek picked up his first win at IU Southeast. He worked four innings and gave up one hit and one run while striking three and walking four. Marmol went 4-for-4 with three RBI.

IU Southeast concludes the series with Asbury with a doubleheader tomorrow at 1 p.m.