Soaring from a five-run third inning, the Mallards split the two-game series finale with the Waterloo Bucks to end a streak of tight defeats at the Duck Pond Sunday.
With the win, Madison improves to 11-13 before entering a four-game roadtrip to interdivisional play with Rochester and Duluth, set for two games apiece.
Starting pitcher Scott Heitshusen (3-1) earned his team-leading third win of the season after six full innings from the hill, allowing seven hits and three runs, while striking out four. The first of his three allowed runs came in the top of the third inning and was the first of the game.
After retiring the first two batters, the Bucks rallied to score following a hit-by-pitch and two consecutive singles. Recovering from the run, the Mallards countered, scoring five runs in the bottom half of the frame.
Matt Behren (pictured) set the tone of the inning, leading off with a double to left field. Bobby Stevens appeared set up the first out of the inning during the next at-bat, but Behren’s early jump to third allowed him to reach third safely on the fielder’s choice. With Behren stealing second, he was able to score when Bobby Hubbard sent a shot to right-center field. Hubbard later advanced to third and was knocked in by Adam Pasono — Jordan Comadena scored on the same play after a throwing error. With Neil Medchill capping off the final run of the inning, the Mallards enjoyed a 5-1 lead entering the fourth.
Madison extended the lead to as much as 8-1 before Waterloo responded late in the game. Behind seven runs in the top of the sixth, the Bucks made things interesting, scoring the next five runs of the game, including two in the sixth.
However, the Mallards’ lead was too much to overcome in the final half of the game, allowing Madison to escape to an 8-6 victory.
Offensively for the Mallards, both Pasono and Behren recorded multiple hits. Pasono had three hits, a run and an RBI, while Behren stood out with his two hits, two RBIs and run scored. Overall, four batters combined for Madison’s seven hits in the ballgame.
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After the team returns from its roadtrip, the Mallards will return for their final home series before the All-Star break to play La Crosse starting Saturday at 5:05. Saturday is Rhythm & Booms night. Meriter & Physicians Plus Insurance Kick Ball Night. Mallards Kick Balls (first 1,000 14 & under). All kids can participate in a kick ball game on the field after the game! Brass Ring playing card giveaway (first 500 on the Great Dane Duck Blind). Movies in the outfield featuring, “Angels in the Outfield” after the big fireworks show, presented by Life Style Staffing.
