Northwoods Madison Mallards

Rafters Steal One Even up Series with Mallards

Published on July 27, 2012 under Northwoods League (Northwoods)
Madison Mallards News Release


Madison, WI - A solo homer in the fifth inning by Rafters right fielder Brandon Downes (Virginia) gave the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters (7-13, 23-31) just enough to edge out a 5-4 win over the Madison Mallards (14-5, 30-24). With the victory the Rafters evened up the three games series at one game each, setting up a rubber match in tomorrow's series finale.

The Rafters got off to an early lead on Mallards starter Kurt Giller (Oral Robers) in the first inning, scoring four runs with three straight two out RBI hits. With runners on first and second, Downes hit a zipping line drive to right field to drive in shortstop Jordan Dreiling (Kansas). A two RBI double by designated hitter Austin Neary (Western Carolina) followed by an RBI single by catcher Aaron Gretz (Ohio State) pushed the Rafters lead to 4-0.

In the bottom half of the inning the Mallards offense responded with four runs of their own. After loading the bases via a walk and two hit by pitches, first baseman Jeff Zimmerman (Northern Illinois) picked up a walk to drive home the Mallards first run.

A past ball followed by an RBI groundout by third baseman Nicholas Howard (Virginia) narrowed the deficit to one run. Designated hitter Vince Bruno (California) completed the comeback inning with an RBI single, hitting a hard grounder up the middle to score Zimmerman.

Downes continued his great night for the Rafters with a solo shot in the fifth inning off of Mallards reliever Trevor Foss (Texas A&M-Corpus Christi), putting the score at 5-4.

Rafters closer Seth Fuller (Black Hawk College) locked down the win in the ninth inning, pitching a perfect inning to pick up his 10th save of the season.

Foss (3-6) was tagged with the loss after giving up the homer to Downes in the fifth inning that proved to be the difference.

Rafters starter Ben Heller (Olivet Nazarene) picked up his fourth win of the season, bouncing back nicely from a first inning in which he gave up four runs on one hit and two walks. Through 5.0 innings of work Heller (4-3) struck out four while walking five.

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Northwoods League Stories from July 27, 2012


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