Serge, Koch named Cy Young for 2011

NEW CARLISLE- As evident from many of the inflated Earned Run Averages around the Old

Republic Wiffle Ball League, it is no easy task to pitch in a slow-pitch wiffleball league. However, Matt Serge of South Bend and Tony Koch of Wills Township were able to put together campaigns on the mound worthy of Cy Young recognition. Serge narrowly edged out teammate Bob Ellam (2010 AL Cy Young) for this year's honor in the American League. Ellam put together another fine season on the mound, going 13-5 with a 7.93 ERA. The left-hander struck out 11 batters in 112 innings pitched. However, Serge logged a 12-3 record with 4.90 ERA and 9 strikeouts. The Sour Wowers player/manager won nine consecutive games to start the year. His 9-0 record at the All-Star Break earned him the starting nod for the American League team even though he was not officially on the ballot. Koch, on the other hand, came on strong at the end of the season. The Federalists won 10 of their last 11 regular season games, in large part because of the arm of Koch. He only pitched 37 innings, but did win all seven of his starts, all of which were complete games. Koch's 3.89 ERA was among the National League leaders.