MWL West Michigan Whitecaps

Dragons Burn 'Caps in Extras

Published on June 28, 2023 under Midwest League (MWL)
West Michigan Whitecaps News Release


COMSTOCK PARK, MI - The West Michigan Whitecaps got off to a hot start but couldn't capitalize on multiple run-scoring opportunities or get timely outs as the Dayton Dragons rallied late in a 9-6 extra-innings defeat in front of 4,995 fans Wednesday night at LMCU Ballpark.

The Whitecaps scored four runs through the first two frames but couldn't execute with runners on base, going 2-for-10 with runners in scoring position. Meanwhile, the Dragons struck for six extra-base hits, including two two-run home runs, finishing 5-for-11 with runners in scoring position in the victory.

The Whitecaps scored in the first inning as Carlos Mendoza crossed the plate after Jace Jung grounded into a double-play, delivering West Michigan the 1-0 lead. Dayton leveled the game in the top half of the second on an RBI double from Jack Rogers before the 'Caps stormed back in front with three runs in the bottom half - featuring an RBI single from Jung - forging back in front 4-1. West Michigan took their largest lead of the game in the fifth, as Eliezer Alfonzo lifted a sacrifice fly to extend the advantage to 5-1. Dayton responded promptly with a five-run sixth - highlighted by two two-run homers from Austin Callahan and Justice Thompson - jumping back in front 6-5. West Michigan relievers Dario Gardea and Gabe Sequeira combined for two scoreless innings to keep Dayton at bay, while first baseman Dillon Paulson added a sacrifice fly in the eighth - tying the game at 6-6. Dayton exploded for three runs in the tenth inning - including two RBI doubles from Callahan and Mat Nelson - before closer Braxton Roxby retired the side to complete the extra-innings victory.

The Dragons improve to 37-33 and 4-0 in the second half, while the 'Caps fall to 34-35 and 2-2 in the second half. Roxby (2-2) secures his second win of the season with two scoreless innings and a pair of strikeouts, while Whitecaps reliever Trevin Michael (3-3) suffers his third loss, allowing three runs in the tenth. Whitecaps starting pitcher Williander Moreno enjoyed his best start of the year, allowing one run through a season-high five innings while collecting a single game-high five punchouts.

UP NEXT

The Whitecaps are scheduled to continue this series against the Dayton Dragons on Thursday at 6:35 pm. Whitecaps righty Wilkel Hernandez gets the start against Dayton pitcher Chase Petty. Broadcast coverage with Dan Hasty and Nate Wangler begins on the Whitecaps Baseball Network beginning at 6:20 pm. Get your tickets for all 2023 home games now at www.whitecapsbaseball.com.

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Midwest League Stories from June 28, 2023


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