NEWTON — A six-run explosion in the third inning broke things wide open for Newton, and the Eagles never looked back in an 11-2 win over Oblong on Tuesday at Jasper County Boys and Girls Park.
Newton jumped on the board early, plating three runs in the first inning, then delivered the knockout punch in the third. During that inning, Carson Barthelme and Jackson James each worked bases-loaded walks to force in runs, Dexter Fulton ripped a bases-clearing double, and David Ferguson added an RBI groundout to cap the rally.
That offensive surge was more than enough for Newton’s pitching staff, which turned in a dominant performance.
Gavin Meinhart earned the win on the mound, tossing four scoreless innings while allowing just one hit. He struck out four and did not issue a walk. Newton’s bullpen combined to finish the job, with Carter Barthelme, Nate Cleaver, and Aiden Gier handling the final innings.
At the plate, Newton showed both patience and aggression. The Eagles drew eight walks and piled up 17 stolen bases, constantly pressuring the Oblong defense. Quincy Fulton and David Ferguson each worked multiple walks, while several players swiped multiple bags.
Dexter Fulton led the offensive charge with two RBIs, while Dominic Baltzell collected two hits. Runs were spread throughout the lineup as Newton finished with eight hits and 11 runs.
Oblong was limited to just three hits on the day, with Cole Littlejohn and Jasper Sweitzer each collecting a hit and driving in runs.
Newton improves with the win and will return to action Thursday when they host Mt. Carmel.
Stat Box
Oblong — 2 runs, 3 hits, 5 errors
Newton — 11 runs, 8 hits, 1 error
Newton Leaders
Hits: Dominic Baltzell 2, Gavin Meinhart 2
RBIs: Dexter Fulton 2
Runs: Multiple players (balanced scoring)
Walks: Quincy Fulton 2, David Ferguson 2
Stolen Bases: 17 team total
Pitching (Newton)
Gavin Meinhart (W): 4 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 4 K, 0 BB
Aiden Gier: 0.1 IP, 0 H, 1 R, 4 BB
Nate Cleaver: 1.2 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 2 K
Carter Barthelme: 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R
