Madison, Wis. – After dropping a pair to the Lakeshore Chinooks, the Madison Mallards (1-3) are ready to rebound as they host the Green Bay Bullfrogs (1-3) on Saturday night at Warner Park. The Mallards have struggled coming up with clutch hits over the past three nights. However, after scoring three runs in the final three innings of last night’s game, Madison hitters will look to build off of some momentum as they close out the home stand against the Bullfrogs.
The Mallards come off of a tough two-game set with the Lakeshore Chinooks who deployed scorching hot bats on Mallard pitchers. Meanwhile, the Green Bay Bullfrogs have dropped three straight after claiming an opening night win. The Bullfrogs are led offensively by outfielder Kyle Benyo who sports a .357 batting average and has driven in a pair while also swiping two bases.
Since the opening night offensive outbreak when the Mallards tallied eleven runs, the team has struggled to score runs. Last night, the Mallards were able to reach base in every inning but two, however a lack of timely hitting allowed the Lakeshore Chinooks to keep a comfortable lead. The Mallards have shown good discipline at the plate through their first four games as the team has managed to draw 16 walks and have been hit by 11 pitches. Converting those runners on base to runs will be key to getting the Mallards back on track.
The Mallards are set to start Luke Matheny, a returning player from last summer who just finished his sophomore year at Oklahoma State University. Last season with the Mallards, Matheny pitched in ten games, starting five. He posted the second-best ERA on the team, a 1.24 mark. Matheny worked 29.0 innings and struck out 21 while allowing only five walks. Thus far, Mallards starting pitchers have had a difficult time on the mound so a quality start from Matheny would be an important step to get Madison back to their winning ways.
Tonight’s game features The Great Dane Summertime St. Patty’s Day with an appearance by The Trinity Irish Dancers. There will also be post-game fireworks presented by Zimbrick Honda. Gates are scheduled to open at 5:00 PM. First pitch is at 6:35 PM. For game coverage, follow along on Twitter at @MadisonMallards or check out northwoodsleague.com for live game statistics.
