After a series victory over the division-leading Rafters, the Madison Mallards (17-14) are set to host the Kenosha Kingfish (20-11) for the first time this season. The Mallards have won seven of their last ten games and will look to continue to gain ground in the Northwoods League South Division.
Madison’s offense has been important lately despite being held in check by pitcher, Jack Eagan last night. Over the last ten games, the Mallards middle infielders have been key to the offensive barrage. Second baseman Jake Snider (Louisville) and Cole Daily (Notre Dame) are both batting over .350 in the past week. Through five games with the Mallards, Snider has solidified himself in the two spot of the lineup as he has tallied eight hits in 19 at bats and has scored seven runs.
After having difficulty in key situations last night, the Mallards will look to revive the clutch bats that have been flashed at times so far this season. As a team, the Mallards have incredible numbers with runners in scoring position. Madison is batting an incredible .320 with runners in scoring position this season. If the Mallards can keep up their pace, they will continue to frustrate opposing pitchers who try to work out of jams.
Set to start the game for the Mallards tonight is lefty Tristen Bayless. Bayless, who just finished his freshman season at Texas A&M, is making his first start as a Mallard. Bayless pitched in a pair of games for the Aggies this spring and held a 3.00 ERA. He made his first SEC appearance against LSU on March 31st. Bayless arrived last week with Aggie teammate Jason Ruffcorn, who has been slotted into the Madison bullpen.
Set to oppose Bayless is Kingfish starter Quinn Snarskis. Snarskis has made five starts this season and has tossed a total of 28.2 innings. He owns a 2-0 record and has struck out 20 while walking only seven. It will be the second night in a row that the Mallards have faced a dominant starting pitcher after seeing Eagan in yesterday’s game with the Rafters.
Tonight’s game features U.S. Bank Military Appreciation Night with postgame fireworks presented by Pepsi. The Mallards will wear patriotic jerseys that will be auctioned off during the game to benefit Badger Honor Flight. For live updates of tonight’s games, check out @MadisonMallards on Twitter and to listen live tune into The Zone 1670AM or 106.7FM WOZN.
