‘Caps win home opener
After being shut out on Opening Day by the Dayton Dragons, the West Michigan Whitecaps earned a bit of retribution by shutting out the Bowling Green Hot Rods 4-0 in their home opener. The ‘Caps got the offense going early, getting RBI singles from Brandon Loy and Steve Moya in the first inning. They added two more runs in the sixth inning, one off a home run from Dean Green. The other run came from another RBI single by Moya. Aaron Westlake added two doubles for West Michigan. For Green, this was his second home run of the season, and manager Ernie Young is taking notice.
“He’s a big hitter,” Young told the Grand Rapids Press. “He’s someone who this organization hasn’t seen in a few years.”
Young also praised starting pitcher Brennan Smith, who threw five shutout innings for this win. He only allowed four hits, no walks, and had a pair of strikeouts. He was limited to 79 pitches on the night.
“He pitched a great game. He competed well, and hopefully next time he goes six innings,” stated Young. “Coming out of spring training, these guys are on a low pitch count and we have to take care of their arms.”
The bullpen got the job done for the Whitecaps, too. Ryan Wooley gave up only one hit in two innings, while Michael Torrealba and Daniel Bennett pitched one inning each without giving up a hit. The Whitecaps host Bowling Green tomorrow night, and then we’ll be at the game on Wednesday at noon. I am sooo ready for live baseball, and the kids are pumped!!!
Photos courtesy of the Grand Rapids Press
Minoring In Baseball
Have fun on Wednesday! Beware of my ex-girlfriend though (the pink piggy in the ‘Caps jersey). LOL.
–Jeff
Yeah, Jeff, I though she’d looked familiar, too, lol. We’ll stay clear…
–Mike
I didn’t know they kept the young ones to such small pitch counts. I grouse about pitch counts once they get established in the majors, but it is nice to see so much care shown while the kids are still developing their mechanics and growing into their talent. I hope you guys had a blast at the Wednesday game!
– Kristen
Kristen-they do take pretty good care of the pitchers. It’s one of the reasons the pros can lure kids away from the college game. We had a great time at the game, thanks! Post coming in the morning, so check back!
–Mike