The Madison Mallards (8-10) look to complete the sweep of the Battle Creek Bombers (13-6) today in the second matchup of a pair of games being played in Battle Creek. The Mallards ended Battle Creek’s three game winning streak last night with a 6-1 win.
The Bombers are led at the plate by infielder Tom Stoffel. Stoffel is batting .431 through 61 at bats and has knocked in 16 runs. Before going hitless last night, Stoffel was riding a six game hitting streak. As a team, Battle Creek hits at a .272 clip which is good for second in the Northwoods League. The Bombers lead the league in doubles, with 37 so far this season.
For Madison, right fielder Jeffrey Mitchell Jr. (California) will look to stay hot at the plate. Mitchell Jr. has hit .364 over the last five games with a home run and ten RBI. Shortstop Cole Daily (Notre Dame) has also been hot lately batting out of the Mallards lead-off spot. After two hits last night, Daily has now hit in five straight games and has recorded a base knock in 13 out of his last 14 games. He’s struck out just seven times and has drawn nine walks.
Scheduled to start for the Mallards is Ryan Schmitt (Illinois). Schmitt is 0-1 this season through two starts and three appearances. He has pitched 10.2 innings and has tallied seven strikeouts.
Set to oppose Schmitt is Bombers starter Christian Griffin. Grifin has made two starts this season, going 1-1 with a 4.90 ERA. He has allowed nine runs on 13 hits through 14.2 innings.
After the two game set in Battle Creek, the Mallards will enjoy their day off on Monday. They return to the Duck Pond on Tuesday, June 20th to take on the Rockford Rivets for an afternoon matinee at 12:05 PM. Gates are set to open at 10:30 AM. Listen to all Mallards games live by tuning into The Zone 106.7 FM or 1670 AM. For more Mallards coverage, visit mallardsbaseball.com.