Bullpen Can’t Preserve Madej Gem in Loss
KOKOMO, IN – A dazzling performance from starting pitcher Nate Madej wasn’t enough for the Wisconsin Woodchucks (21-16), who fell by a score of 5-1 against the streaking Kokomo Jackrabbits (23-16) Thursday night.
The loss is the sixth in the last seven games for the Woodchucks, who have now started off the second half 0-2.
Once the Woodchucks got into Kokomo’s bullpen, they got on the board first in the top of the sixth. A double by Jacob Burke moved Stephen Reid into scoring position. Gino Groover’s infield single plated Reid and gave the visitors their first and only lead.
Nate Madej was masterful through six and one-third innings of shutout baseball. He did not allow a hit until the bottom of the fifth, issuing two walks and striking out ten Jackrabbit hitters in a dominant outing.
Unfortunately for the Woodchucks, the lead would not hold. Thomas Wilhite retired his first batter out of the bullpen before the next four hitters reached and the score was tied. Tom Kane came in but issued a walk, hit batsman and infield single which plated the inherited runners. When the dust settled, Kokomo led 5-1.
The Woodchucks stranded runners on the corners in the eighth, ending their hopes of a late comeback in the defeat.
Top Performers
Madej took over the team lead in strikeouts after the no-decision. He now has 35 on the season and his ERA is down to 2.22.
Spring Hill lefty Collin Millar tossed a scoreless eighth inning in his team debut.
Reid continued his hot start at the plate, going 2-for-3 with a walk and a run scored in the loss.
Burke recorded both a hit and a stolen base for the second consecutive game.
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Author: David Keech
David Keech is a retired teacher and works as a sportswriter, sports official and as an educational consultant. He has reported on amateur sports since 2011, known as 'KeechDaVoice.' David can be reached at [email protected]
