6/17/04 – Written by Denise Wampler, JMU Communications Intern

The Harrisonburg TURKS (6-3) were handed their third loss of the season, as the New Market Rebels (6-4) posted 12 runs on 12 hits, beating the TURKS 12-7, on Thursday June 17, at Rebel Park in New Market. Mike Mlotkowski (1-1) (Junior, Oklahoma City University) started the game for the TURKS, lasting just 1 1/3 innings, giving up eight runs (three which were unearned), on seven hits, striking out two, and walking one. Mlotkowski was replaced by Pat Caldwell (Freshman, Yavapai Junior College) in the second inning, who went 4 1/3 innings for the TURKS, giving up two runs, on three hits, striking out three, and walking five. Junior pitcher, Nick Pereria (Junior, University of San Francisco), finished the game for the TURKS, giving up just two runs, on two hits, striking out one, and walking none. The damage however had already been done, as the TURKS defense committed five errors which allowed for six unearned runs. Offensively, the TURKS posted nine hits and were lead by TURKS right fielder, Kevin Koski (Freshman, Southern Illinois), who went 3-3 and TURKS left fielder, Jeff Halbert (Junior, Rollins College), who produced three hits and two RBI’s in four at bats. The TURKS continued to leave the bat paths occupied at the end of each inning, stranding nine runners in 8 1/2 innings of play. The Rebels pitching staff went the distance, striking out eleven TURKS, and helping the Rebels improve to 5-4. Rebels designated hitter, Knowles, had a two runner homer in the second inning. With this loss, the TURKS have fallen to 6-4, yet still lead the Southern Division by one game. The TURKS next game will be Friday, June 18, against the Waynesboro Generals, at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Harrisonburg. Game time is 7:30 p.m. Come out and support your Harrisonburg TURKS.