2011 Newts season review

NEW CARLISLE- The 2011 season was full of firsts for the New Carlisle Newts.

Unfortunately, most of these were negatives. For the first time in franchise history, the Newts finished below .500, with a 17-25 record. It was also the first time New Carlisle did not win a division championship, as the Newts finished in third place in the National League. Despite remaining within striking distance of rival Emery's Army and the Federalists for a shot at a first place finish for most of the season, the Newts dropped seven out of their last 10 games to fall out of contention. The Newts pitching staff failed to contain opposing batters, as they allowed a league-high 11.4 runs per game. In fact, no Newts pitcher finished with a record above .500. New Carlisle failed to generate enough offense to make up for its lackluster pitching and defense. Marc Lindsey's absence for 36 games left a hole in the middle of the Newts lineup. Even with Garrett Curless and Koby Keck leading the ORWBL with 88 RBI each, the Newts finished fifth in league in run production. However, there were a few bright spots for the team. Rookie Matt Went, who was called up in July, hit .486 in six games with 9 home runs and 19 RBI. Went is expected to have an expanded role with the team in 2012 and could become a difference maker for New Carlisle. Despite the struggles on the field, the Newts remain one of the most popular franchises in the league. The Newts once again led the ORWBL in attendance. Despite a shellacking at the hands of the Federalists on July 17, an ORWBL-record crowd of 49 fans turned out to Migley Field.