City Cast Madison How the Mallards Threw Madison a Curveball
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May 21, 2025 Tom Alesia, a longtime Madison newspaper writer and author of "Baseball Like It Oughta Be," dives into the fascinating history of the Madison Mallards. He reveals how this team revolutionized collegiate summer baseball and transformed local attitudes toward the sport. Alesia discusses the Mallards' remarkable attendance records and the innovative strategies that made them a fan favorite. He also touches on the impact of community engagement in sports and how the team has played a pivotal role in reviving baseball enthusiasm in Madison.
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Madison's Baseball Struggles
- Madison had a tough history with baseball, with many struggling teams before the Mallards arrived.
- The arrival of the for-profit Northwoods League's Mallards in 2001 changed the city's baseball culture significantly.
Badger Sports Dominate Madison
- Wisconsin Badger sports dominate Madison's sports attention, making baseball an uphill battle.
- The Mallards slowly built their fan base with creativity and determination against strong competition.
Shoebox Discount Scandal
- Steve Schmidt, owner of the Shoebox, gave unadvertised discounts to Badger athletes, which led to NCAA suspensions.
- Though minor now, that scandal highlighted the strict pre-NIL rules and his genuine goodwill toward athletes.
