Rockford, IL – August 1, 2024 The Rockford Rivets faced off against the Royal Oak Leprechauns in a tightly contested game on August 1st. Despite an early lead and solid performances from key players, the Rivets ultimately fell short, ending the game with a 3-9 loss.

The Rivets struck first in the bottom of the first inning, with Tj Williams and J.R. Nelson getting on base and scoring on a sacrifice fly by Tre Hondras. Maddox Mihalakis added to the Rivets’ tally with a solo home run in the fourth inning, showcasing the team’s offensive potential. Bobby Atkinson and Jayden Lopez also contributed, with Atkinson reaching base multiple times and Lopez hitting a crucial double.

However, the Royal Oak Leprechauns mounted a comeback in the fourth inning, scoring six runs, highlighted by a three-run home run from Michael Lareau. Despite the Rivets’ efforts to regain control, including strong pitching performances that kept the game within reach, the offense struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities, leaving several runners stranded on base.

In the later innings, the Rivets’ bullpen managed to hold the Leprechauns scoreless, but the offense couldn’t muster the necessary runs to close the gap. The game concluded with a [final score], marking a tough loss for the Rivets.

Key Performances:

• Maddox Mihalakis: Solo home run in the fourth inning
• Bobby Atkinson: Multiple times on base
• Jayden Lopez: Key double

The Rivets will look to bounce back in their next game, building on the positive aspects of their performance and aiming to turn close contests into victories. The team remains focused on their goals as they prepare for the upcoming challenges.

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The Rockford Rivets are a member of the finest developmental league for elite college baseball players, the Northwoods League. The Northwoods League is the proven leader in the development of elite college baseball players. Entering its’ 31st season, the Northwoods League is the largest organized baseball league in the world with 26 teams, drawing significantly more fans in a friendly ballpark experience than any league of its kind. A valuable training ground for coaches, umpires, and front office staff, over 350 Northwoods League players have advanced to Major League Baseball, including three-time All-Star and 2016 Roberto Clemente Award winner Curtis Granderson, three-time Cy Young Award winner and World Series Champion Max Scherzer (TEX), two-time World Series Champions Ben Zobrist and Brandon Crawford (STL) and World Series Champion Chris Sale (ATL). As well as 2019 Rookie of the Year and 2019/2021 Home Run Derby Champion Pete Alonso (NYM) and 2023 World Series Champion, 2021 and 2023 All-Star, MLB Gold Glove winner, and two-time All-MLB first-team shortstop Marcus Semien (TEX). All league games are viewable live via the Northwoods League website. League games are viewable live at watchnwl.com and on ESPN+. For more information, visit www.rockfordrivets.com or download the new Northwoods League Mobile App on the Apple App Store or on Google Play and set the Rivets as your favorite team.