TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — The Kalamazoo Growlers (29-25; 12-7) finished their two-game set with the Traverse City Pit Spitters (33-19; 12-6) scoring a combined grand total of just three runs, scoring two in a one-run defeat.
Kalamazoo’s offense had been the belle of the ball entering the series, leading the Northwoods League in on-base percentage, runs, and walks. Over the two-game set, the Growlers combined for three runs and just four walks.
After three scoreless innings, Traverse City would score first thanks to a costly error by Noah Coy in the fourth. KJ White would make an error in the fifth that would result in two-runs for the Pit Spitters, who would take a 3-0 lead. Brody Krzysiak, the Growler starter, would exit after five innings, with three unearned runs and 90 pitches. Traverse City’s Nic Mirabella would exit after six completely scoreless innings, while striking out eight total Growlers. The bottom of the eighth would see Kalamazoo score their first, and only, runs of the game, with Jayce Lee bringing in an RBI single, and Gabe Springer bringing in a run via sacrifice fly.
Elliot Traver would pick up his seventh save of the summer with a 1-2-3 top of the ninth, giving Traverse City the win.
Kalamazoo struggled against the changeup of Mirabella, who punched out eight Growlers. Mirabella’s changeup also kept the Growlers on the ground, picking up just one flyout the entire night, with eight of his outs coming on weak infield contact, including a 6-4-3 inning ending double play that was the final play of Mirabella’s night.
The Growlers and Pit Spitters aren’t over for the summer, with the two teams facing off on July 28th and 29th in Kalamazoo for the final regular season matchups between the two teams. For now, Kalamazoo heads to Royal Oak and then home for a split-site two-game set against the Leprechauns on Tuesday and Wednesday.
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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.