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Rats Strand 11 Baserunners
Wisconsin Rapids, Wis.- In a game that started off as a pitcher’s duel early, the Green Bay Bullfrogs (11-16) opened things up late as they defeated the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters (8-20) by a score of 9-0. The Rafters had opportunities all game long but ended up leaving 11 runners on base.
Nick Blackburn (Illinois) and Roberto Baroniel (Nova South Eastern University) went toe to toe at the outset. Blackburn had just one slip up when he walked the eight hitter Tony Brandner (Northern Illinois) to start the 5th inning. Brandner would eventually advance to third and be brought in by Brian Celsi (California). The one run would be all that Baroniel would need in his seven shutout innings.
The Rafters threatened in several instances versus the righty but could never find that big hit. The best chance of the evening for Wisconsin Rapids came in the bottom of the 7th when they loaded the bases against the tiring Baroniel. However, Baroniel was able to escape as he struck out Michael Hurwitz (Illinois) looking to leave the bases full of Rafters.
Green Bay would own the late innings as they widened their eventual winning margin. A five run top of the 9th sealed the deal for the Bullfrogs who broke a five game losing streak.
The two teams will continue their four game series tomorrow evening as it is Advanced Disposal Cranberry Appreciation Night. The Rafters will be wearing cranberry themed jerseys which will be auctioned off after the game. First pitch is at 7:05 pm CST.
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The Wisconsin Rapids Rafters are a member of the finest developmental league for elite college baseball players, the Northwoods League. Playing its 21st season of summer collegiate baseball, the Northwoods League is the largest organized baseball league in the world with 18 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, more than 115 Northwoods League players have advanced to Major League Baseball, including Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer (DET) and MLB All-Stars Chris Sale (CWS), Jordan Zimmermann (WAS), Curtis Granderson (NYM), Allen Craig (STL) and Ben Zobrist (TB). All league games are viewable live via the Northwoods League YouTube channel. For more information, visit www.raftersbaseball.com.
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