Every year it seems like the baseball season just flies by, and 2015 was no exception. I feel blessed and honored that I had the opportunity to coach the Rookie Division Cubs this season. They are a great bunch of kids, and it’s always special to be able to spend time coaching your own son or daughter. I’m really proud of Brian this season, as he adjusted well from tee ball to hitting off of the machine, especially since it tosses the ball all over the place. He made some nice plays in the field, and learned about being a good teammate. I saw a lot of growth in our other players, also, and that’s always very satisfying. As long as the kids learned the game and had fun to the point of wanting to play again next season, then I’ll call this one a success. We ended the season on a positive note also, as the team came back to beat the Yankees 4-3 in the final inning. I really give the Sault Area Little League credit, too, as we’re continuing clinics even after the official season is over. Sometimes Brian prefers just working one-on-one with me, so we end up doing that, also. I’m still hoping we’ll be relocated by next season someplace warmer so we can get going sooner in the year, but if not we’ll make do where we’re at.
Brian busy behind the plate
Video of our sliding drill from the last practice:
MiLB.com did a great story on West Michigan Whitecaps outfielder Ross Kivett. Growing up on Ohio, Kivett started playing hockey at an early age, and only started baseball when he was 12. He’s having a nice season in West Michigan, so it looks like he made the right decision, and that’s not taking anything away from the great sport of hockey. I know for me living here in Michigan, hockey is huge (especially the town I’m living in right now). For me as a kid, the only two sports were baseball and hockey. It made sense, too, playing baseball all summer and hockey all winter, and they continue to be the true sport loves of my life. I really don’t think that kids play multiple sports like I did as a kid, and it’s too bad. You can read the full article on Ross HERE.
West Michigan Whitecaps vs Bowling Green Hot Rods (Midwest League)
Fifth Third Ballpark-Comstock Park, MI: Oh, it’s that time of the year, again, when my little Nerf-Herders and I head down to Fifth Third Ballpark for Star Wars Night. We got to meet old favorites like the Stormtroopers and Darth Vader, as well as a newbie like Sabine Wren from Star Wars Rebels. The one thing I was disappointed with was that there was no Boba Fett!! How could the most feared bounty hunter in the galaxy not make an appearance?
These aren’t the droids you’re looking for
After we mingled with members of the Galactic Empire and Rebellion, we were able to take a stroll around the warning track of Fifth Third Ballpark. Personally, I never turn down an opportunity to walk around on a professional baseball field. Jedi Franky welcomed us onto the field, and was able to get a few good pics of the boys.
Jedi Franky welcomes us onto the field
With everything going on, we almost forgot we had a ballgame to watch. This was a pitcher’s duel for certain. On the mound for the ‘Caps, A.J. Ladwig gave up an early solo home run, but settle in and pitched a nice game. He went 6.1 innings, only giving up two earned runs, and striking out two. Gage Smith would come in and earn the save.
Offensively, West Michigan was led by catcher Arvicent Perez, who went 3-3 on the night, including an RBI. Both Rashad Brown and Michael Gerber went 2-4, respectively, with Gerber earning an RBI. Garrett Mattlage scored on a wild pitch, and Zach Shepherd walked and scored on a throwing error. Final: Whitecaps 3, Hot Rods 2.
Brian with Jedi Crash
After the game we were treated to some fireworks, which capped off a fantastic night. Just one more game where I feel lucky and blessed to be able to spend time with my kids and dad. We’re not sure when our next game will be, but we’ll be sure to make it’s a good one.
And one more photo we bought from MI Unlimited Photography. For some reason all three of us look like we were just captured and are about to be brought before the Emperor. I guess we’re just tired from travel and fun.
Great Lakes Loons vs. West Michigan Whitecaps (Midwest League)
Dow Diamond-Midland, MI: This month is the 30th anniversary of one of my favorite films of all time, Back To The Future. When we found out that the Great Lakes Loons were hosting a BTTF night, Brian and I jumped in the van and drove 88 mph downstate to take in the game. As soon as we entered the gate, we found what we were looking for: the BTTF car; the time machine; the DeLorean. Just to be able to see the car that was in he movie was amazing, but Brian got a special treat. By making a donation to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, he was able to get into the car. ‘Future boy’ hammed it up a bit, and we got some great photos!
Flux capacitor…fluxing:
Bri earned his DeLorean drivers license, too:
Also a little video of Brian in the time machine. I would love to take him on a trip back to 1985:
Great Scott!!!! Three generations of baseball fans:
After we were done checking the car out, we headed down to the visitor’s dugout to try for some Whitecaps autographs. Brian really wanted to get Joey Pankake to sign his card, but he didn’t play this game. He did get his hat signed by Zach Shepherd and Franklin Navarro, though, and they were both very nice to him.As for the actual baseball game that took place, the Loons jumped out to a 1-0 lead when first baseman Justin Chigbogu hit a bomb over the right field fence that hasn’t landed yet. He went 2-4 on the night. Great Lakes then went up 2-0 on a Jimmy Allen RBI that scored Federico Celli. Allen was 1-3 for the game, and Celli 2-4.
We also spent some time at Lou E’s Lookout, playing on the playground and hanging out with mascots Lou E. Loon and Ral E. Camel.
Whoa, this is heavy, but while we were in the Lookout, the Whitecaps started their comeback. The ‘Caps scored five unanswered runs, and needed only two RBI’s to do it. Michael Gerber got West Michigan on the board, when he scored on a wild pitch after hitting a triple. Gerber went 1-3 with an RBI, while Derek Hill led the way offensively, going 2-4 with the other RBI. David Gonzalez also went 2-4 with two runs scored.
A view from out seats. There simply is no bad seat at Dow Diamond, it’s such a great ballpark. And this moon was amazing, too!
On the mound, Artie Lewicki earned the win for West Michigan, allowing two runs on seven hits. Gabe Hemmer and Johan Belisario picked up the hold and save, throwing just over three scoreless innings. Kevin Guzman took the loss for the Loons. Another fun game, and feeling very blessed to be able to experience this with my son and dad. With a long drive ahead of us, ‘future boy’ and I made like a tree and got out of there. We have another game planned soon, but we’ll see how the weather holds up. Final: Loons 2, Whitecaps 5.
And another YouTube video of the game:
Photos and videos property of Minoring In Baseball
Brian has had a few more games in this season, and is really adapting well from tee ball to hitting off of the pitching machine. He’s getting hits on a regular basis, and has made some nice plays in the field. Most important of all, he’s having fun and learning a lot. We give the kids an opportunity to play every position, so he’s seen the ball come off the bat at about every angle.
Wow, what a little hot dog!
The posted photos are from two different games, all taken by his sister Lily, who has become his official photographer. His brother Trevor has also been helping out with the team, especially with the catchers. It’s always good to have us all together, and they can easily be bribed with Dairy Queen after the games. I feel very blessed to be able to coach Brian and the Cubs this season.
Nashville Sounds vs. Oklahoma City Dodgers (Pacific Coast League)
First Tennessee Park-Nashville, TN: Over the weekend my best friend was lucky enough to take in a couple of games down in Nashville. He was also nice enough to supply me with some photos of his experience, and it definitely looks like a great place to see a ballgame. The scoreboard looks especially unique, and fits into the theme of Nashville so much, and just one of the reasons I love minor league baseball. The Sounds hosted the Oklahoma City Dodgers both nights he was there, winning 3-2 on Friday, and 7-2 on Saturday. The top photo, and the one below are from Friday nights game.
The rest of them below are from Saturday. Thanks again to my friend for providing these pictures. First Tennessee Park is definitely one that I need to see for myself one day.
Traverse City Beach Bums vs. Joliet Slammers (Frontier League)
Wuerfel Park-Traverse City, MI: The summer of rain continues, but we didn’t let it ruin our baseball fun over the weekend. Although it rained most of the weekend, the weather cleared up enough to take in our first Beach Bums game of the season. Our experience started off on a good note, as Brian got a game ball from the Joliet Slammers before the game even started. I guess it’s good to make the right friends, as he was chatting with the guys in the bullpen.
Brian with his Frontier League game ball
Here’s a video I took by mistake, as I thought that the photo mode was on the phone:
The game was a good one for the home team. The Bums scored three runs in the second inning, and never looked back on their way to victory. Offensively they were led by Jay Austin, who had four hits and was just a home run shy of hitting for the cycle. Jeff DeBlieux pitching in with a triple and 2 RBI’s, while Jake Rhodes and Greg Harisis each had hits. In the fifth inning, Graham Ramos hit and RBI single, and then scored on a double by Yazy Arbelo. On the bump, pitcher Kramer Champlin threw seven strong innings for the win, allowing four hits and no runs. Final score: Beach Bums 5, Slammers 1.
This is also the first time I’ve seen a mascot fight break out…
After the game, Brian was able to run the bases of Wuerfel Park.
After he ran the bases, he met up with a couple of the Slammers players to thank them again for the baseball. He was going to stand in line for the Beach Bum autographs, but he was tired and we still had a long drive ahead of us. This was a fun game, and the impending rain kept it a very small crowd. We were lucky that the rain held off for us, and I’m hoping to get back to TC soon. It’s a good ballpark to visit since one our way down state one way or another.
Brian with members of the Joliet Slammers
Here’s another video from the game:
Photos and videos property of Minoring In Baseball
With their 160th pick, the Tigers drafted Cam Gibson out of Michigan State.
The Detroit Tigers have drafted Cam Gibson in the 5th round with their 160th pick. Not really ground breaking news, other than the fact that Cam is the son of Tiger legend Kirk Gibson. Like his father before him, Cam is currently attending Michigan State University. Of course it’s unknown at this point if Cam, who just finished his junior season, will return to MSU or join the Tigers organization. As a junior, he had a career-best 10 doubles and 17 stolen bases. He hit .294 while hitting five home runs and posting 32 RBI’s. We had a chance to see Cam play back in 2013 when he was a member of the Battle Creek Bombers.
Drafting family members of current and former Tiger players and management is nothing new. In fact, Detroit just drafted RHP Ryan Castellanos in the 25th round (760 overall), who is brother to third baseman Nick Castallanos. Over the seasons we’ve seen the likes of Pat Leyland, Colin Kaline, Nick Avila, and Ben Verlander in West Michigan, all relatives to others in the Detroit organization (and I’m probably missing a few). Out of their top picks, though, I think that outfielder Christian Stewart and pitcher Tyler Alexander have the best shot at cracking the Whitecaps roster right out of the draft.
Things move slowing here with our Little League, but the kids finally were able to get a couple of games in. Their first game was rained out, but we scrimmaged the Angels the next night to make up for it. The scrimmage went well, and we got all the kids through the batting order twice. Brian did well, and made a great play at first base. Last week we got our first ‘real’ game in, as the Cubs took on the Tigers. Brian got his first taste of playing catcher, as well as some other infield and outfield positions. We try to give the kids a chance to play a different position every inning, so they can experience each one. He also ripped a double in his only at bat, and made a nice play at the hot corner. No game this week, but looking forward to some good practices and next week’s game.
West Michigan Whitecaps vs. Dayton Dragons (Midwest League)
Brian with his favorite Whitecaps player, Joey Pankake
Fifth Third Ballpark-Comstock Park, MI: After a fun night of baseball, we were back at the ballpark the next morning for more of the same. Sundays at the Whitecaps games are the best, as the kids are able to get on the field before the game, run the bases after the game, and get some free eats. We started off on the field, with Brian getting to meet his favorite player Joey Pankake. Since we missed a shot with Franky the day before, we got a pic with him, as well as PBS Wordgirl. The boys even hot a chance to hang out in front of the dugout for a few minutes.
Brian with PBS Wordgirl!
The game went a lot better for the home team this time around. Pankake hit an RBI single in the first inning, to put West Michigan up 1-0 early. On the mound, Jeff Thompson worked effectively, even getting the Dragons to hit into an inning ending double-play with bases loaded in the fourth inning.
There was more fun stuff for the kids, as Brian was able to make his own sign to cheer on his Whitecaps.
We had a little rain, too, but not enough to stop play or ruin our fun. We took turns with some rain ponchos, but maybe we should have gotten some umbrellas.
The Whitecaps would add on some more runs, as Zach Shepherd doubled in a pair in the bottom of the fourth. In the fifth, Austin Schotts hit a RBI single, and Garrett Mattlage squeezed home a run. So cool to see a squeeze play live. Forget home runs, that’s baseball! Thompson continued his dominance, pitching six innings and striking out a career high nine batters. Final: Whitecaps 5, Dragons 0.
After the game, Trevor took Brian back onto the field to run the bases. He had fun showing off his speed burning around the bases. He was a little tired, though, as the bases are a little further apart than they are in Little League. This was a great day, and a great holiday weekend with family. We are all very grateful for this time together, and thankful for all the brave men and women who gave their lives so we can enjoy days like this. We really wanted to see the game on Memorial Day, but things didn’t work out (it was a good game, too, as the ‘Caps won in extra innings). We’ll be back downstate in a couple of weeks, and will try to see more baseball then.
And here’s the YouTube video you’ve been waiting for:
Celebrating more innocent times of childhood memories, which seem to revovle around baseball. Minor league games, baseball trivia, and a hint of nostalgia.. Enjoy!
This is the travel blog for Malcolm MacMillan, founder of TheBallparkGuide.com. Visit the website for comprehensive guides to Major League Baseball and Minor League Baseball stadiums.
Every year it seems like the baseball season just flies by, and 2015 was no exception. I feel blessed and honored that I had the opportunity to coach the Rookie Division Cubs this season. They are a great bunch of kids, and it’s always special to be able to spend time coaching your own son or daughter. I’m really proud of Brian this season, as he adjusted well from tee ball to hitting off of the machine, especially since it tosses the ball all over the place. He made some nice plays in the field, and learned about being a good teammate. I saw a lot of growth in our other players, also, and that’s always very satisfying. As long as the kids learned the game and had fun to the point of wanting to play again next season, then I’ll call this one a success. We ended the season on a positive note also, as the team came back to beat the Yankees 4-3 in the final inning. I really give the Sault Area Little League credit, too, as we’re continuing clinics even after the official season is over. Sometimes Brian prefers just working one-on-one with me, so we end up doing that, also. I’m still hoping we’ll be relocated by next season someplace warmer so we can get going sooner in the year, but if not we’ll make do where we’re at.
Video of our sliding drill from the last practice:
Minoring In Baseball 