Slide of Epic Proportions

Losers of eight straight games, including sweeps by North Atlantic Conference opponents Colby-Sawyer and Thomas College, the Hornets stand at a 2-18 record on the season. Now the team must deal with the absence of sophomore outfielder Michael Cartularo.

Initial reports indicate that Cartularo may have aggravated a ligament in his knee, as opposed to a possibly torn anterior cruciate ligament. Cartularo plans to have further tests done on his knee. No matter what the result, he would also like to apply for a Red Shirt Hardship Waiver, which would allow Cartularo to have three more years of playing eligibility after this season.

Before he was injured, Cartularo was second on the team in batting average with a .273 clip. The sophomore was also benched for three games of last weekend's four-game series against Thomas.

Head coach Ed Poland had his reasons for benching Cartularo.

"Defensively there were some issues there. Michael was also not hitting in crucial situations, so I decided to give the young guys some options," Poland said.

In addition to Cartularo's play on the field, Poland also noted that the other aspects of Cartularo's game were lacking.

"He needed a break both mentally and physically... He'd be icing his knees during practice. He just needed to relax and do what he does best," Poland said.

Poland welcomes the thought of Cartularo's return next season and beyond, as long as Cartularo does what is expected.

"He (Cartularo) needs to be a leader, the kind of silent leader who does his job on a daily basis," Poland said.

The Hornets will certainly miss one of the best hitters on the team, with an upcoming double-header at home against NAC opponent Colby-Sawyer. The games are scheduled for 2:00 and 3:30 p.m. at Skip Pound Field.