A rain delay caused the Mallards, River Bats game to start 1 hour and 48 minutes late Saturday night. Fortunately, the weather did not prevent the contest from being completed. Unfortunately, when it was all said and done, the Mallards found their losing streak extended to four games, and obtaining the first victory of the season is something the Mallards will have to again wait for.
The 7-2 loss keeps the Mallards in last place, and along with the Mankato Moondogs, winless in league play. After three consecutive losses in a six game road trip, Mallards Manager Darrel Handelsman decided to shake up the starting lineup before Saturday’s game in hopes of injecting some life into a stagnant offensive attack thus far. But, the Mallards hitting woes continued, only managing four hits on the night. The Mallards got on base, but the problem was getting runs in, as they stranded eight baserunners.
The Mallards did hold a 2-1 lead through the middle of the 5th inning, the River Bats quickly responded, tacking on five runs in the bottom half, and added another in the 6th inning, giving them a 7-2 lead that would be more than enough to get the win.
The Mallards (0-4) continue their road trip, facing Alexandria (3-1) tonight at 7:05 p.m. The Mallards home opener is Wednesday, June 9th, against the Mankato Moondogs.