ROYAL OAK, Mich. — The Kalamazoo Growlers (29-26; 12-8) extended a now three-game losing streak with a 11-1 defeat to the Royal Oak Leprechauns (23-29; 6-10) on Tuesday night.
The Growlers struggled in every facet of the game, allowing 11 runs, making three defensive errors, and scoring just one run. Over the three game Kalamazoo road trip, they combined for 24 runs, seven errors, and just four total runs. Kalamazoo also went down on strikes a total of 29 times over the three game stretch.
In the final game of the road trip, the Growlers would score first, with Noah Coy scoring after leading off with a walk. In the bottom of the second, the Leprechauns would tie the game, and begin to run away with the game. Two unearned runs in the second would give Kalamazoo a 3-1 deficit in the fourth, where they would put runners on the corner with two away, before a pickoff at first would end the inning scoreless. Brendan Garza‘s final inning would be the fifth, where he would allow two more runs, bringing the total to five, but with Kalamazoo’s defensive mistakes, the earned run total was just two.
The first man out of the Kalamazoo ‘pen would be Drew Duckhorn who would pitch a scoreless first inning of work, but leave the bases loaded with a run already in just one out into the seventh. Hayden Scalf would allow a hit that scored two more before recording an inning ending double play. Wilson Kruse would struggle mightily in the eighth, allowing three runs in one inning where the Leprechauns would take their 11-1 final score.
For Royal Oak, it was a game started by Rhett Roeser, who earned a no-decision after his second inning exit, with Trey Acker earning the win for his three scoreless innings, and Nick Brady the non-traditional save for his four scoreless innings of work as the final arm.
The Growlers and Leprechauns will face off for the second game of the series on Wednesday night, with the game taking place in Kalamazoo at 6:35 p.m. ET.
###
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.