Panthers Finish Miller Park Series 2-1, But Lose Final Game

The Panthers (20-20, 9-8 Horizon League) went head-to-head in their last game of the three-day weekend series against Northern Kentucky University (16-29, 5-17 Horizon League). The Panthers played their final game of the series at Miller Park, losing 3-0.

However, Milwaukee finished the series 2-1.

According to athletic communications director, Chris Zills, the Panthers have played at Miller Park every season since 2002.

In the third game, the Panthers faced starting pitcher Trey Granns, who struck out six players, including five consecutive strikeouts.

“They played a very good game,” said Milwaukee’s head coach Scott Doffek. “Their pitcher did an outstanding job. You have to give credit where credit is due.”

Starting pitcher Adam Ruess (2-4) allowed three runs in seven innings. He walked one and struck out four players. Kentucky scored one run in the first inning and two runs in the sixth inning, with a total of nine hits. Milwaukee had six total hits and no runs.

“Tonight was tough on me,” says Ruess. “I didn’t execute a few pitches, which hurt us tonight. They played good defense and pitched well all weekend.”

Ruess says that the team didn’t have much energy in the dugout, but he was excited to have been playing at Miller Park.

“It’s easy to lose your energy when you’re facing such a tough pitcher,” says Doffek.

Ruess says his team is on the right track, and he is excited to see what’s ahead for the remainder of the season. Coach Doffek feels like the team has great opportunities ahead of them for the remainder of the season.

“We are trending in the right direction,” says Doffek. “We just have to get hitters to reach their full potential.”

Friends, family and fans showed up at iller Park last night to support both teams with about 800 in attendance.

UWM will start a series against Chicago State tomorrow. According to Zills, first pitch is set for 3 p.m. at Henry Aaron Field.