By Peter Geppert
Madison, WI – August 10, 2012. The Madison Mallards (21-11, 37-30) return to the “Duck Pond” tonight for their final home stand of the season against the South Division leading Wisconsin Woodchucks (25-7, 42-25). First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 pm.
On Thursday the Mallards took advantage of a great performance on the mound by starter Danny Sullivan (Madison College) to take a 3-0 win in the rubber match of their five game series against the Lakeshore Chinooks (16-16, 33-34). Through 6.0 innings, Sullivan (5-1) gave up no runs on three hits while striking out nine. On offense, RBI contributions from left fielder Derek Fisher (Virginia), second baseman Luis Munoz (Coffeyville CC), and shortstop Greg Rhude (Madison College) was enough to support the pitching.
Right-hander Nick Sutherland (Minnesota State) will make his second start of the season for the Mallards. A late addition to the team, Sutherland (1-0) has provided a much-needed boost to the pitching staff as they close out the season. In his last start the right-hander picked up the win, giving up one run on five hits while striking out six during an 8-1 win over the Eau Claire Express (14-19, 25-42) on August 4th.
Taking the ball tonight for his fourth start of the season with the Woodchucks is right-hander Adam Kramer (Concordia-St. Paul). In his last outing the Wausau native went 5.0 innings, giving up two runs on five hits while striking out five during a 4-3 win over the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters (10-22, 26-40). Kramer (1-0) already has some history against the Mallards, earning the win during a rain-shortened contest in which he pitched 5.0 shutout innings to setup the 2-0 victory.
Free Falling:
The Woodchucks come skidding into their final regulars season series on a four game losing streak. Since taking the South Division by storm with a 25-3 start that clinched a playoff berth, the Woodchucks have cooled off considerably.
Close the Book:
After winning last night’s game the Mallards secured a 6-4 edge in their inaugural series against the Chinooks, who are in their debut season in the Northwoods League.
Up Next:
The Mallards play their final home game of the season tomorrow, August 11th against the Woodchucks. That night will be TDS and Budweiser Fan Appreciation Night at the ballpark, and will also feature in-game entertainment from the Inflatamaniacs. First pitch of that game is scheduled for 6:35 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.
