FOND DU LAC, Wi. — The Kalamazoo Growlers (13-9) beat the Fond du Lac Dock Spiders (12-12), roaring back after a rain delay, to win 7-3.
Kalamazoo starter Jack Crittendon labored through his first two innings, allowing just one run, while the Growler offense went scoreless against Gunner Gilmore. The Dock Spiders James Hankerson lead the third inning off with a homer, giving Fond du Lac a 2-0 lead. Kalamazoo would score their first run in the fifth, before Hankerson would add a triple (already picking up a homer and single) to bring in a run and give the home team a 3-1 lead.
Kalamazoo would open the sixth with a walk and a double, before the rain would pause the contest for 40 minutes. Right out of the break, now facing Luke Greth, as JD Crisp brought in two runs to tie the game at three. Crisp would finish the inning scoring on a wild pitch. The Growlers would turn to Christian Krause in the sixth, who would pitch two scoreless innings. A scoreless eighth, pitched by Donny Tober, would lead into the ninth, where Kalamazoo held a 4-3 lead.
In the top half of the inning a single and error would give Kalamazoo two runners on, before a KJ White double would add two to the lead. White would come around to score on a wild pitch. Tober would then strikeout the side on 14 pitches in the bottom of the ninth.
Following Rockfords loss and their win, the Growlers now stand alone at the top of the Great Lakes East, and control their own destiny at this point. Kalamazoo and Fond du Lac will face off again Friday at Herr-Baker Field with first pitch scheduled for 7:35 p.m. eastern.
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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.