KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The Kalamazoo Growlers (25-21; 8-3) rode a Matt Thompson grand slam to a 9-5 victory against their rival, the Battle Creek Battle Jacks (23-22; 3-8), on Thursday night.
“[Having fun] makes it easy to come out here, makes it easy to play free.” said Matt Thompson, the hero in Thursday nights game. After a 2-2 game through two and a half, Thompson’s grand slam punctuated a six-run, two-out rally that gave Kalamazoo an 8-2 lead. Jack Crittendon, who earned the win, would exit after the third when reaching a 35-pitch limit. Brendan Burch would pitch three innings of one-run ball, with the Growlers holding a five-run lead at the time of his exit.
Christian Forniss would struggle, allowing two runs in just two outs, but Logan Lockhart would pick up the final out of the seventh, and pitch a scoreless eighth and ninth en route to the Growlers eighth win in nine games.
Matt Thompson was the star, hitting his second grand slam of the season, sending a ball 100-mph off the bat into left field off Anthony Sanchez. The grand slam was Kalamazoo’s third of the season. The Growlers have found a power stroke in the second half, hitting nine home runs in the last 10 days.
With Tigers All-Star Brandon Inge present, Kalamazoo gave him a show, showcasing their elite situational hitting, front-end bullpen, and coaching in the win. Kalamazoo and Battle Creek will play the 10th edition of the 2025 I-94 Rivalry Series on Friday night in Battle Creek, with first pitch scheduled for 6:35 p.m. ET.
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The Kalamazoo Growlers are a premier collegiate summer baseball team competing in the Northwoods League. Since their inaugural season in 2014, the Growlers have quickly become a beloved part of the Kalamazoo community, known for their exciting games, dedicated fans, and unique ballpark experience. The Growlers have a history of pushing the boundaries of baseball entertainment. From viral promotions like “Coach Drake” and “The Streaker” to unique giveaways and themed nights, the team consistently delivers unforgettable experiences for fans of all ages. The Growlers have clinched two Northwoods League championships in 2022 and 2024, solidifying their position as a powerhouse in the league. Their passionate fan base and dedicated players have fueled their success on the field, creating memorable moments that will be cherished for years to come. Beyond baseball, the Growlers are committed to giving back to the Kalamazoo community. The team actively participates in charitable initiatives, supports local businesses, and fosters a positive impact on the region. For more information, please visit growlersbaseball.com
The Northwoods League is the proven leader in the development of elite college baseball players. Entering its’ 32nd season, the Northwoods League is the largest organized baseball league in history with 24 teams, drawing significantly more fans, in a friendly ballpark experience, than any league of its kind. A valuable training ground for coaches, umpires, and front office staff, nearly 2400 NWL alums have been drafted and over 380 Northwoods League players have advanced to Major League Baseball, including three-time All-Star and 2016 Roberto Clemente Award winner Curtis Granderson, three-time Cy Young Award winner and two-time World Series Champion Max Scherzer (TOR), two-time World Series Champions Ben Zobrist and Brandon Crawford and World Series Champion and Cy Young Award winner Chris Sale (ATL). As well as 2019 Rookie of the Year and 2019/2021 Home Run Derby Champion Pete Alonso (NYM) and 2023 World Series Champion, MLB All-Star, MLB Gold Glove, two-time Silver Slugger winner and two-time All-MLB first team shortstop Marcus Semien (TEX). League games are viewable live on Northwoods League+ (at watch.northwoodsleague.com), ESPN+, and the Northwoods League Network.