Battle Creek Bombers vs. Rochester Honkers (Northwoods League)

C.O. Brown Stadium–Battle Creek, MI: It seems to always rain when we visit Battle Creek, and this trip was no execption. We were lucky enough, though, that it stopped in time for us to enjoy ourselves at the ballpark. Here at C.O. Brown Stadium, where my love for Minor League Baseball began, has now seen four generations of my family enjoy baseball here. Because trips to BC usually revolve around family, however, not necessarily baseball, it was good to enjoy the game with loved ones. It was also super hero night at the Bombers game, so even though Brian was a bit tired and grumpy from the long trip, he perked up when he saw the likes of Wolverine, Spider Man, and Batman. The boys also met the BC mascot, Moe Skeeter! My dad also set me up to throw out the first pitch, despite the fact my birthday was last week. I shot a perfect strike, and was even complimented by the Bombers’ catcher. Brian really wasn’t happy with me that I was on the field without him, but he got his turn later in the game. At one point the kids chased the super heroes through the outfield, and he also competed in a race where he had to run with flippers, a scuba mask, and floatie. He did better than the other kids he was racing, but wasn’t happy about falling while running in the flippers. Anyway, we had a super fun time on super hero night, and it’s always good to visit family.

Ok, the game itself pitted the hometown Bombers against the Rochester Honkers in Northwoods League action. The Northwoods League is a summer college wooden bat league. Some of the best college players in the country hone their skills here. Playing for the Bombers is Cam Gibson, son of Detroit Tigers legend Kirk Gibson. During the school year, Gibson suits up for the Michigan State Spartans. Due to super hero night, the Bobers were wearing special jerseys to look like Superman. We had some free baseball, too, as the game went into extra innings. The Bombers only had six hits in the game, but the Honkers’ pitching staff had trouble finding the plate, and walked in some runs. The Bombers scored in the bottom of the ninth to tie the game, and came through with a run in the 12th for the win. On the hill, Todd Eaton earned the victory, pitching four innings, giving up one hit and striking out four. Offensively, the Bombers didn’t have much going, but Rouric Bridgewater (Arizona State) was 1-3 with a RBI and run scored. Final: Bombers 6, Honkers 5 (12 innings).

And Brian’s on field race:

Binder Park Zoo

If you find yourself in Battle Creek with some time to spare, the Binder Park Zoo is a nice place to visit, especially for the kids. The one thing they really got a kick out of is feeding the giraffes! The looks on their faces were priceless! Lots of other animals to see there, too, but the Africa exhibit is probably the best.

Photos property of Minoring In Baseball