Sitting alone atop the Northwoods League South Division, the Madison Mallards (8-3) take on the Battle Creek Bombers tonight at Warner Park at 6:05 PM. Gates are scheduled to open at 4:30 PM and the game will feature post-game fireworks presented by Budweiser. The Mallards have won six straight ballgames and continue to pad their cushion atop the division. After winning in suspenseful fashion last night, holding off a Bombers late-inning rally, the Mallards look to keep the bats hot in game two.

Probable Pitchers
Scheduled to start for the Mallards tonight is Illinois righty Ryan Kutt. Kutt has made one start this season, a 5.1 inning outing against the Fond du Lac Dock Spiders. Kutt allowed only one earned run on five hits while striking out four and earning a no-decision. The Mallards went on to win the game 3-1. Kutt is set to follow his college teammate, Sean Leland, who earned the win in last night’s ballgame.

Players to Watch
Mallards right fielder Jake Randa (Northwest Florida State) and first baseman David Vinksy (Northwood) had spectacular games last night, pacing the Mallards offensively. After four hits in the Mallards 7-6 win, Randa now leads the team with a .422 average and Vinsky is close behind, hitting .364. Randa and Vinksy, along with Tyler Plantier (Richmond), have hit safely in every game this season.

Mallards left fielder Drew Ober (UNC-Charlotte) has also been steady at the dish for Madison. Last night, Ober had two hits for the second consecutive game and extended his hitting streak to ten games. Ober has bumped his average up to .297 and has scored six runs this season.

Mallards closer Trace Norkus (North Florida) has been lights out in the back end of the Madison bullpen. Norkus earned his fourth save of the season last night, making him a perfect 4-4 in save opportunities this season. Norkus has allowed only four hits and one walk over 5.1 innings while striking out seven.

Tickets are still available and can be purchased online at mallardsbaseball.com, by calling 608-246-4277, or in person at the Mallards ticket office. Follow @MadisonMallards on Twitter for in-game updates and check back after the ballgame for a complete recap.