KENOSHA, Wis. — The Kalamazoo Growlers (33-30; 16-12) rode late game moments to a 10th inning victory over the Kenosha Kingfish (24-37; 10-16) on Thursday night.
Kenosha opened the scoring, taking the opening run with a Robert Newland RBI single in the home half of the first. Kalamazoo would answer immediately, scoring two runs in the second, before the game would fall into a lull, going scoreless until the sixth. Logan Borboa would finish his start for the Kingfish going six innings and allowing just the two runs that came across in the second, bouncing back nicely after struggling against the Growlers his first time out. On the other hand, Rocco Bernadina would struggle in his final inning of work, with Tyler Horner coming up clutch with a two-run double.
Kalamazoo’s nightly goal of winning the final nine outs would not start out well. Will Juday would pitch the seventh for the Growlers, allowing a Nick Williams sacrifice fly to give the Kingfish a 4-2 lead. That wouldn’t stop Kalamazoo. Isaac Vanderwoude would single home Gabe Springer in the eighth, and Antonio Perrotta would single home Brodey Acres in the ninth to tie the game at four. Bryce Brassfield would nail down the ninth, and send the game to the tenth.
JD Crisp would be placed on second to open the tenth, moving to third on a sac bunt, and scoring on a KJ White sacrifice bunt, where White would reach first. Isaac Vanderwoude walked to sandwich the sac bunts, and would score on a throwing error as the pitcher checked on White at first. Bryce Brassfield would find a groundout and strikeout before hitting the tying run with a pitch. In a payoff pitch, Brassfield would freeze Peyton Ryback for the victory.
The Kalamazoo win, paired with losses by both Royal Oak and Battle Creek, moves the Growlers 2.5 games ahead for the second Great Lakes East playoff spot. Kalamazoo will look to boost their playoff hopes as they put Alex Burden on the mound for a Friday night showing against Kenosha in the final regular season game between the two teams.
###
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.