After holding onto a 1-0 lead through the first three innings of the game Saturday at the Duck Pond, the Mallards became their own worst enemy. Nine Madison defensive errors plagued the home team, allowing the La Crosse Loggers the opportunity to run away with a 16-7 blowout in front of a season-high crowd of 7,423.

The Loggers continued to score, inning after inning, plating runners in the fourth frame through the end of the 3:40 game. Most of the runs came during the fifth inning of play, when La Crosse scored six unearned runs.

Only seven of the Loggers’ 16 total runs were earned – six of which were charged to Allan Donato, who replaced Jim Sajewich after the fifth.

Starting Mallards pitcher Scott Heitshusen (3-2) took the loss despite his early success. After a few innings on the mound, the hurler lost the strike zone, building his walk total to four after 3.2 innings of work. He finished with a line of three hits, three runs (one earned) and four walks and was replaced by Dan Sorce.

Madison’s pitching staff allowed 17 hits throughout the game, and each reliever appeared to be thrown into the fire, as no one from the pen could muster a solution.

Offensively for the Mallards, they combined for 12 hits and five runs batted in, including Eric Nielsen’s (pictured) two-RBI pinch-hit appearance.

Sunday will mark the series finale with La Crosse and Madison’s last home game before the All-Star Break. Sunday is St. Mary Hospital Madison Blues Turn-Back-the-Clock-Night. Mallards will wear replica 1930 style Madison Blues Uniforms, and the first 500 kids and the first 500 seniors will receive a replica Blues hat.

Live Blues music pre- & post-game with Westside Andy will be featured. Remember, admission is free for everyone over the age of 60 and Pepsi Baseball Gloves for the first 1,000 kids 14 & under!