Northwoods Madison Mallards

"The Baseball Project" to Perform as Mallards Look to Avoid Sweep

June 10, 2011 - Northwoods League (Northwoods)
Madison Mallards News Release


MADISON, WI - June 10, 2011. After suffering their second loss in a row on Thursday, the Madison Mallards are hoping to avoid a two-game sweep at the hands of the Waterloo Bucks Friday night at "the Duck Pond."

The 4-2 loss to the Bucks a night ago leaves the Mallards winless at their newly-renovated home at 0-2, but field manager Greg Labbe knows it is still early.

"We're not panicking by any means," said Labbe. "We'd love to get a home win before we get back on the road. Right now, we're looking forward to getting our offense going. We need to make some minor adjustments to build up our confidence."

The Bucks played well defensively last night and limited the number of hits the Mallards were able to get.

"We couldn't string hits together against them," said Labbe about the Ducks' offense. "We are hopefully going to change that."

Taking the mound hoping to silence the Mallards tonight for Waterloo is right-handed pitcher Chase Stevens (Seminole State Community College). Stevens is 1-0 on the young season after going six innings and allowing one run in the Bucks' 9-3 win over Eau Claire on June 4th.

Countering for the Mallards is Cash Collins (Wofford). Collins had a strong Mallards' debut back on June 3rd versus Wisconsin Rapids, earning the win. In the 6-0 victory over the Rafters, Collins went six innings, allowing no runs on two walks and seven strikeouts. His performance earned him the honor of Northwoods League "Pitcher of the Night."

Despite the three losses in four games, Labbe is impressed with his pitchers.

"Our guys on the mound have done enough to take stress off of our hitters," he said. "I'm just looking to get on a roll with all facets of our game, and if we can get a good start from Cash, I see problem doing that."

Game time is 7:05 p.m.

"The Baseball Project" brings their talents to "the Duck Pond" TonightAdditional commentary provided by Jerrad Radocay

Renowned supergroup "The Baseball Project" will play live music throughout the game. The band plays original songs completely about America's pastime; topics include Satchel Paige, Ted Williams, Jackie Robinson and more.

The Baseball Project was formed in 2007 and is composed of Scott McCaughey (Minus 5, R.E.M.), Steve Wynn (Dream Syndicate, Gutterball), Mike Mills* (R.E.M.), and Linda Pitmon (Miracle 3, Golden Smog). Later that year, the group recorded its first album, Volume 1: Frozen Ropes and Dying Quails.

The group's second album, Volume 2: High and Inside, was released on March 1, 2011. The band has followed the record's release with a tour covering the U.S.

"This is what Mallards Baseball is all about," said Mallards' President Vern Stenman. "The Baseball Project is all about having a great time and we can't think of a better way to celebrate the first Friday night in our new ballpark than live music by a baseball-focused, national, rock band."*Former R.E.M. guitarist Peter Buck is a regular member of the group, but for the Madison show fellow R.E.M. member Mike Mills will be "pinch-hitting" for Buck.

Gates will open at 5:05 p.m. this evening as "The Baseball Project" will be performing behind home plate as soon as the ballpark opens.

The Madison Mallards are members of the 16-team summer collegiate Northwoods League. Great seats remain for all games! Fans can purchase tickets one of three ways: 1) online by clicking here, 2) over the phone by calling the ticket office at 608.316.DUCK (3825), or 3) in-person at the "Duck Pond." Group tickets, including hospitality areas perfect for company outings are on sale as well.



Northwoods League Stories from June 10, 2011


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