by Peter Geppert

Madison, WI – July 27, 2012. The Madison Mallards (14-4, 30-23), winners of seven of their past eight games, return home to the “Duck Pond” for the first time since July 19^th, to matchup with the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters (6-13, 22-31). First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 pm.

On Thursday the Mallards took the opener of the series with a 10-2 win over the Rafter. A grand slam in the seventh inning by first baseman Jeff Zimmerman (Northern Illinois), his ninth home run of the season, sealed the Mallards fifth straight win.

Right-hander Kurt Giller (Oral Roberts) will make his eighth start of the season tonight for the Mallards. In his last outing Giller (2-1) suffered his first loss as a Mallard in a 2-0, rain-shortened defeat to the Wisconsin Woodchucks (16-2, 33-20). Through 4.1 of work innings the right-hander gave up two runs on three hits and four walks.

Making his third start against the Mallards this season is Rafters right-hander Ben Heller (Olivet Nazarene). Heller (3-3) is coming off his worst start in which he took the loss during a 13-5 defeat to the Mallards on July 14^th. The right-hander has struggled against the Mallards, coming into tonight with an 11.11 ERA in his first two outing against the club.

Making it Count:

Despite being 14^th in the league in batting average, the Mallards sit atop the South Division in home runs this season with 47.

Bash Bros:

The lethal combination of Zimmerman and right fielder Tyler Marincov (North Florida) has worked well for the Mallards this season. Their combined 19 home runs and 85 RBIs the are best among any duo in the South Division.

Up Next:

The Mallards continue their four game home stand tomorrow, July 28^th, with the series finale against the Rafters. That night will be Great Dane Summertime St. Patty’s Night with the Kissers, Cost Cutters Mini Bat Night, and Hy-Vee Post-Game Fireworks.

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.