June 20, 2024 – Rockford, IL – The Rockford Rivets edged out the Kokomo Jackrabbits with a 4-3 win on Wednesday night at Rivets Stadium in a nail-biting contest that showcased strong pitching, strategic baserunning, and pivotal defensive plays. The Jackrabbits took an early 1-0 lead in the first inning with #23 J.J. Dutton scoring on a single by #25 Jack Anderson. The Rivets tied the game in the fifth when #17 Nick Barone scored after advancing on a balk and a sacrifice bunt. Both teams displayed strong defensive efforts through the middle innings. Rivets’ pitcher Austin Bestul held the Jackrabbits scoreless in the fifth and sixth innings, showcasing impressive control and composure. The game saw a turning point in the eighth inning when the Rivets took advantage of Kokomo’s defensive errors. #2 Scott Newman was hit by a pitch and advanced on errors, eventually scoring on a wild pitch. #8 Kyle Schupmann’s single drove in another run, putting the Rivets ahead 3-2. The Jackrabbits tied it again in the bottom of the eighth with a timely hit, bringing the score to 3-3. In the top of the ninth, Scott Newman reached base after being hit by a pitch and advanced on a balk and a sacrifice bunt. An error allowed Newman to score, giving the Rivets a 4-3 lead. The Rivets’ defense held firm in the bottom of the ninth, securing the victory. This thrilling win highlights the Rivets’ resilience and strategic play, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next game.
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The Rockford Rivets are a member of the finest developmental league for elite college baseball players, the Northwoods League. The Northwoods League is the proven leader in the development of elite college baseball players. Entering its’ 31st season, the Northwoods League is the largest organized baseball league in the world with 26 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, over 350 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 World Series Champion Max Scherzer (TEX), two-time World Series Champions Ben Zobrist and Brandon Crawford (STL) and World Series Champion 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, 2021 and 2023 All-Star, MLB Gold Glove winner, and two-time All-MLB first-team shortstop Marcus Semien (TEX). All league games are viewable live via the Northwoods League website. League games are viewable live at watchnwl.com and on ESPN+. For more information, visit www.rockfordrivets.com or download the new Northwoods League Mobile App on the Apple App Store or on Google Play and set the Rivets as your favorite team.
