KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The Kalamazoo Growlers (32-29; 15-11) fell to their rival Traverse City Pit Spitters (40-20; 19-7) in a 10-inning thriller that decided the 131 Rivalry Series on Monday night.
The game would open with a high-scoring first inning, with Kalamazoo answering Traverse City’s first inning run with two of their own. A scoreless second would lead into the Pit Spitters tying the ballgame at two runs apiece through three innings. Traverse City would take the lead for the first time in the top of the fifth, with Aaron Piasecki bringing home two runs, but Kalamazoo would answer back immediately, with Brodey Acres being the ring-leader.
The fireworks would begin in the top of the six, as leadoff man Adam Broski would head for second, with a close play at the bag. After initially being ruled safe, the call would be overturned, causing a discussion between Traverse City manager Todd Reid and the umpire crew. During the discussion, pitching coach Rocky Mauriello would exit the dugout before being pushed away by Reid. In between innings, Mauriello would come back out of the dugout in the middle of the sixth, and would be ejected.
The Pit Spitters would respond quickly with a run in the top of the seventh, retaking the lead. In the eighth, Kalamazoo would bring in a run off a Jayce Lee single, before stranding runners on first and second to end the inning. In the top of the ninth, Traverse City would spoil Bryce Brassfield’s return, with Grady Mee scoring off a Cole Prout double.
The bottom of the ninth would continue the cinematic feel of the game, as Isaac Vanderwoude would reach on a leadoff walk, before advancing to second on a single, third on a stolen base, and home on a Jayce Lee sacrifice fly. Donny Tober would get the call in the tenth, where the inherited runner in Adam Broski would come around to score with the bases loaded on an Aaron Piasecki two-out single that would give Traverse City a 7-6 lead.
KJ White would pinch run for Antonio Perrotta before the Growlers would go down 1-2-3 to Elliot Traver, who would earn the win. With the victory, the Pit Spitters would take the season series, grabbing the 131 Rivalry Series belt in 2025. The loss also moved the Growlers to just 1.0 game ahead in the playoffs, with Battle Creek and Royal Oak, the two teams behind Kalamazoo, playing a doubleheader on Tuesday night.
The Growlers and Pit Spitters play their final regular season matchup on Tuesday night at Homer Stryker Field.
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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.