Battle Jacks Drop the Opening Game of the Series Against Growlers

By Nicholas Giannone | August 1st, 2026

BATTLE CREEK, MI — The Battle Creek Battle Jacks dropped the opening game of the series against the Kalamazoo Growlers on Saturday, 6-3.

The Growlers stormed out to an early 1-0 lead in the first inning before starting Battle Jacks pitcher Manny Reyes found his groove during the middle stages of the game.

The Battle Jacks struck back in the third inning, taking their only lead of the game as Brendan Thompson’s three-RBI double cleared the bases. 

Kalamazoo cut the lead to one after a fielder’s choice by DeMir Heidelberg in the fifth inning. 

The Growlers continued their offensive momentum in the sixth inning, scoring two more runs to burst the game wide open as they took a 4-3 lead.

With the Battle Jacks holding onto any hope, the Growlers scored two runs to take a commanding 6-2 lead, with just three outs remaining in the contest.

The Battle Jacks threatened to cut into the lead during the ninth inning, scoring one run, but it proved not to be enough as the Growlers held on to the lead.

The Battle Jacks are back in action on Sunday as they close out their season series against the Kalamazoo Growlers with first pitch scheduled for 5:05 pm.