KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The Kalamazoo Growlers (29-23; 12-5) rode a strong outing from Alex Burden and the ‘pen en route to a 4-1 win over the Kenosha Kingfish (21-30; 7-9).
Burden opened the game with five shutout innings for Kalamazoo, striking out nine and allowing five hits before his day ended with 84 pitches. “I knew I could get them on the fastball looking… I knew I could get them on the fastballs,” said the Growler starter. Burden’s start was the second consecutive five-inning scoreless outing by Kalamazoo starters out of the All-Star break.
While Burden was on the bump, the Growlers pushed a run across in the second, fourth, and fifth, with the highlight being a Gabe Springer home run in the fourth, his fourth of the summer. Out of the pen, it would be Jeremiah Holder who would allow the only run of the day in the seventh off a Jadan Boyce sacrifice fly. KJ White would continue his base running escapades in the eighth, stealing second and forcing an error allowing a big insurance run to give the Growlers their three-run lead.
Bryce Brannon’s ninth wasn’t clean, loading the bases before grabbing his third and final out of the game. Brannon picked up his fourth save of the season, and now leads Kalamazoo in that category.
The Growlers are back in action tomorrow, heading up to Traverse City for a 5:05 p.m. first pitch on Sunday. The game will be available on Northwoods League +.
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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.