by Peter Geppert
Madison, WI – July 1, 2012. The Madison Mallards (14-18) welcome the Eau Claire Express (10-21) to the “Duck Pond” tonight for a one game set. First pitch is scheduled for 5:05 pm.
On Saturday the Mallards scored three runs in the bottom of the ninth off Loggers closer Jonathon Van Eaton (Memphis) to walk-off with a 9-8 win to take two of three games from the South Division leading La Crosse Loggers (22-9). Right fielder Tyler Marincov (North Florida) had his first multi-home run game of the season, hitting two home runs that contributed to his four RBIs on the day. The stellar day at the plate brought his home run total up to nine, tying three other former Mallards for the franchise record.
Right-hander Trevor Foss (Texas A&M-Corpus Christi) is on the bump for the Mallards tonight. Foss (1-3) has been tagged with the loss in his last three starts and is coming off a game in which he allowed six runs on seven hits in a June 25th 9-5 loss to the Wisconsin Woodchucks (16-15). Despite the struggles Foss has still been difficult for hitters to gauge. His 41 strikeouts entering today are good for third in the Northwoods League.
The Express will start right-hander Drew Ghelfi (Minnesota) for the first time this season. Ghelfi (0-2) has made five appearances out of the bullpen this season, and is carrying a 3.00 ERA. The La Crosse native has struggled at times with command, averaging almost two walks per inning. In his last appearance he allowed two runs on two hits in 4.0 innings of relief during a 7-1 loss to the Battle Creek Bombers (13-18).
The Mallards’ bats have been red hot during their three game weekend home stand, collecting 27 runs on 28 hits in two games. Most notable of all the Mallards over the stretch has been Marincov, who has eight RBIs and three home runs.
After tonight’s game the Mallards will get their first off day since the season began on May 30th. The Mallards will head up to Wisconsin Rapids the following day to return to action on July 3rd against the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters (14-16).
The Mallards return to the “Duck Pond” on Thursday July 5th to begin a three game series with the Express. That night will be the Jay Hazen Dentistry for Madison Vintage Bobble Boy giveaway and Badger Honor Flight Military Appreciation Night.
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 League in North America.
