LOVES PARK, Ill. — The Kalamazoo Growlers (35-31; 18-13) rode a strong start by Brody Krzysiak to a 3-2 victory over the Rockford Rivets (25-38; 12-19) on Sunday afternoon.
The game would open with three scoreless innings, as Danny Cercello would toe the rubber for Rockford. The bottom of the fourth would see the first cracks from Krzysiak, as he would allow a leadoff single and double, with a groundout and single scoring both runs. Kenny Hirschfeld would ground into a double play to end the Rivet threat.
The Growlers would look to respond right away, as Jay Slater would lead the inning off with a double, before an error, walk, and hit-by-pitch would score the Kalamazoo catcher. However, two big outs from Cercello would see the threat end with a 2-1 Rockford lead. Despite a 90+ pitch count entering the sixth, the Rivets would elect to leave Cercello on the bump, and he would get two quick outs while dealing with Matt Thompson’s leadoff walk, before KJ White would single to bring in Thompson and, following a stolen base, Micah Rienstra-Kiracofe would reach on an infield single, and White would score on an error, the third and final committed by the Rivet defense on Sunday.
Brody Krzysiak would continue his strong outing working around a leadoff error in the sixth, and sitting the Rivets down 1-2-3 in the seventh, ending Krzysiak’s day on 97 pitches and seven innings of two-run ball. Bryce Brannon would be the first man out of the ‘pen. Following a leadoff flyout, Brannon would suffer a walk and hit-by-pitch, but force a key 6-4-3 inning ending double play to stop the threat. The Growlers would go scoreless in the ninth.
Bryce Brassfield would get the call in the save situation, and get two quick outs, including a strikeout of Gavin Taylor, but hit Hirschfeld to put the tying runner on. The Rivets would pinch run with Ny’zaiah Thompson, who was a perfect 21-21 in stolen base attempts entering the pinch-running scenario. Just one pitch later, Thompson would be 21-22 in stolen bases attempts as Jay Slater would throw out the stealing Thompson for the final out.
Both Kalamazoo and Rockford would struggle with striking batters out, with both teams combining for just three total strikeouts, as the defenses were put to work. Kalamazoo also excelled controlling the run game, an emphasis from Manager Cody Piechocki entering the series. The Growlers would steal three bases themselves, and allow just one stolen bag while being caught once.
The Growlers remain in the lead for the second spot in the Great Lakes East, and will play the team immediately behind them in a matchup in Royal Oak on Monday and Tuesday night. Both games are slated to begin at 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.