Madison, WI – June 11, 2012. The Madison Mallards (6-6) head to Wausau to play the first game in a two game series against the Wisconsin Woodchucks (6-6). First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 pm.
On Sunday the Mallards scrapped out a gritty 4-3 win over the Eau Claire Express (5-7). Closer John Hamilton was able to complete a five out save and work out of two jams to get the Mallards the win. The Mallards used third baseman Phil Sorensons (UT-Martin) second home run in four games to power the offense.
Hamilton continued his remarkable start to the year, recording his fourth save of the season which is tied for the Northwoods League lead. The lefty has racked up 11 strikeouts in 6.0 innings. Through five appearances he has yet to give up a run.
Starting on the mound for the Mallards is right-hander Pat Kaminska (Central Michigan). His last appearance Kaminska came out of the bullpen for 6.0 innings of relief, surrendering five hits and one earned run in a 4-3 extra innings loss to the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters (5-7). Being used as both a starter and long-term reliever is nothing new to him, at Central Michigan this year he made nine starts and nine relief appearances.
The Woodchucks starting pitcher will be a game time decision. The team is expecting to activate six additional players today, and will decide who will get the start once they are all in Wausau.
The Mallards will be looking to capitalize off some shaky Woodchucks pitching in the series. So far this season the Woodchucks have allowed the most runs and issued the most walks in the South Division.
Woodchucks outfielder Brooks Braga (UW-La Crosse) has been on a tear for the Woodchucks of late. The teams leadoff man has hit safely his last five games, also stealing two bases and driving in three runs over that stretch.
The Mallards returns to the “Duck Pond” on Wednesday June 13th to take on the Bombers That night will be The Payroll Company Police Appreciation Night at the Ballpark featuring Erik Estrada from the hit TV show ChiPs.
The 2012 season is upon us! Single-game tickets are on-sale for all Mallards home games
The Madison Mallards are part of the 16-team Northwoods League. The Northwoods League has more teams, plays more games, and draws more fans than any other Summer Collegiate Baseball League in North America.
