by Peter Geppert
Madison, WI – July 16, 2012. The Madison Mallards (7-3, 23-22) come home to the friendly confines of the “Duck Pond” to start a two game series with the Green Bay Bullfrogs (4-6, 26-19). First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 pm.
On Sunday the Mallards could not overcome an early 7-0 deficit, falling 8-7 on the road to the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters (5-6, 21-24). With the loss the Mallards dropped their first series since starting the second half of the season. The Mallards were led on offense by designated hitter Jack Livingston (Northwestern), who went 2-for-4 with five RBIs, including a grand slam.
On the hill for the Mallards tonight is left-hander Daniel Gibson (Florida). Gibson (2-2) settled down into his role as a starter in his last outing on the mound. Through 6.0 innings the lefty surrendered two runs on three hits while striking out six in the Mallards 3-2 win over the Bullfrogs on July 10th.
Right-hander Taylor Black (Texas State) will make his seventh start of the season for the Bullfrogs. Black (4-1) is coming off a start in which he suffered his first loss during the Bullfrogs 3-2 defeat to the Mallards. The right-hander gave up a season high three runs on five hits while striking out seven through 6.2 innings of work.
Living It Up:
As a result of his quality day at the plate against the Rafters Livingston received NWL Player of the Night honors for the first time this season. His fourth inning grand slam was the first such home run for the Mallards this season.
Familiar Foe:
Black’s fourth start against the Mallards tonight will make him the most faced opposing pitcher for the Mallards this season. The right-hander has compiled solid numbers in his three prior starts against the Mallards, posting a 2.77 ERA and 15 strikeouts.
Up Next:
The Mallards will play the finale of their two game series against the Bullfrogs tomorrow, July 17th at the “Duck Pond.” That night will be Sustain Dane Mallards Go Green Night at the ballpark. Also featured that evening will be the New Belgium Brewing Company’s Bike, Bell, and Beer Night and UW Health EMS Appreciation Night. First pitch of that game is scheduled for 7:05 pm.
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.
