KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The Kalamazoo Growlers (36-33; 19-15) rode strong pitching and late offensive power to a 10-2 win over the Royal Oak Leprechauns (34-35; 17-16), while forcing a win and in game tomorrow on Wednesday night.
The game would open with Rocco Bernadina struggling on the mound, allowing two runs in the first, with Jovan Gill picking up an RBI. The Growlers would respond with one of their own in the first, courtesy of Jayce Lee, and take the lead for the first time with two more in the second, with both runs scoring off an E6.
The 3-2 lead would turn into 4-2 in the bottom of the third, with JD Crisp bringing in a run. The fourth and fifth would go scoreless, with Royal Oak starter Joey Turner’s day ending with 4.2 innings of four run ball. The bottom of the sixth and seventh would be an offensive outpour for Kalamazoo, combining for 17 batters, six runs, seven hits, and three free passes. The 10-2 lead would become the final thanks to a scoreless seventh and eighth for Bryce Brannon and Christian Forniss striking out the side in the ninth.
Kalamazoo excelled on the mound, shutting out Royal Oak following two runs in the first, with Rocco Bernadina moving his season strikeout total to 52. Bryce Brannon was also particularly strong, after allowing a leadoff hit and hitting a batter with one out, a long at-bat with Preston Leon would turn into a 4-6-3 inning-ending double play in the seventh. The Royal Oak offense came into the matchup averaging over 10 runs per game in their last five matchups, and Kalamazoo held them to just two.
The win moves Kalamazoo’s magic number to two, with a win over Royal Oak tomorrow cementing the Growlers in the playoffs. Brendan Burch will toe the rubber for the home side, while Royal Oak will start Jovan Gill. The game is scheduled for 6:35 p.m. ET and will be on ESPN+.
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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.