KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The Kalamazoo Growlers (37-35; 20-17) fell to the Battle Creek Battle Jacks (33-39; 13-24) in the regular season and series finale, in which Battle Creek took home the I-94 Rivalry Cup for the first time since 2017.
Battle Creek would get on the board first with a run in the second, off Kalamazoo starter Will Juday, and would add three in the third and fourth off Drew Duckhorn and Gage Vota respectively. Hudson Lubbers would pitch a scoreless fifth and sixth, before Ben Van Nes would allow a run in the seventh. Trevor Johnson would score the only run for Kalamazoo in the bottom of the seventh with a leadoff home run. Both teams would go scoreless in the eighth and ninth to end in an 8-1 final.
The star of the game was Battle Creek’s Anthony Sanchez, who threw eight innings of one run ball while striking out eight Growlers. Sanchez completed his second consecutive start throwing seven or more innings while allowing two runs or less. The outing for Sanchez was an amazing exclamation point on the Battle Jacks season.
Battle Creeks season ends taking home the I-94 Rivalry Cup for the first time since 2017, as Ben Harley puts a punctuation mark on his 2025 season, where the Jacks were in contention for the first half playoff spot until the final day.
Kalamazoo employed a strategy of preservation, aiming to keep every arm that threw under 35 pitches to allow the freshest bullpen as possible in game one of the playoffs on Sunday. Kalamazoo has not yet announced starter for the first game of their playoff run against Traverse City. Game one is schedule for Sunday evening with a 5:05 p.m. ET first pitch. 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.