By Peter Geppert
Madison, WI – August 5, 2012. The Madison Mallards (18-9, 34-28) return from their five game road trip tonight to take on the Lakeshore Chinooks (14-13, 31-31) in the first edition of a five game series. First pitch is scheduled for 5:05 pm.
On Saturday the Mallards got a pair of quality performances from a couple of newcomers to walk away with an 8-1 win over the Eau Claire Express (12-16, 23-39). Offensively the Mallards were led by left fielder Mitch Elliot (Xavier), who in only his fourth game as a Mallard went 1-for-3 with four RBIs, including a three run homer in the third inning. In his first start as a Mallard, right-hander Nick Sutherland (Minnesota State) earned the win after 7.0 impressive innings on the mound in which he gave up five hits on one run.
Looking to keep the Mallards’ winning ways going tonight is right-hander Trevor Foss (Texas A&M-Corpus Christi). In his last start, Foss (3-7) took the loss during a 7-1 defeat to the La Crosse Loggers (16-11, 42-20) on July 30th. The right-hander has been deadly from the mound, coming into tonight third in the Northwoods League with 63 strikeouts.
Towing the rubber tonight for his sixth start of the season for the Chinooks is right-hander Jason Hoppe (Mankato State). In his last start Hoppe (3-2) pitched a complete game, giving up two runs on three hits while striking out seven in a 7-2 win over the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters (8-20, 24-38). The right-hander comes into tonight with an intimidating 1.90 ERA and 34 strikeouts compared to only seven walks.
Getting Comfortable:
The five game series between the Chinooks and the Mallards represents the longest set this season for either team.
Disarmed:
The Chinooks come limping into the series without two of their most productive hitters, outfielder’s Eric Aguilera (Illinois State) and Bre Kimbell (Louisiana Tech), who have combined seven home runs and 65 RBIs.
Up Next:
The Mallards continue their five game series with the Chinooks tomorrow, August 6th. That night will be Jon Lancaster Toyota Baseball Card Night at the ballpark.
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.
