MWL West Michigan Whitecaps

Whitecaps Fall in Series Opener

Published on June 8, 2021 under Midwest League (MWL)
West Michigan Whitecaps News Release


COMSTOCK PARK, MI - Pitching dominated as the Lansing Lugnuts shut out the West Michigan Whitecaps 2-0 in front of 2,461 fans Tuesday night at LMCU Ballpark.

West Michigan went 0-for-6 with runners in scoring position as the 'Caps amassed only five hits while striking out eight times in the defeat. The loss brings the Lugnuts to a one-game series lead in the all-time series, as the Whitecaps now hold a record of 190-191 against their in-state rivals.

Lansing Lugnuts starter Rafael Kelly wielded five shutout innings while striking out four 'Caps hitters. Jesus Rodriguez had a solid start for West Michigan, tossing a season-long six scoreless frames while striking out four and holding the 'nuts to only three hits.

Lansing finally broke out in the seventh and eighth as Ryan Gridley crossed on a wild pitch before an RBI-double from Jordan Diaz forged Lansing out in front 2-0. West Michigan failed to respond through the final three frames as Lugnuts closer and Rockford, Michigan native Jack Weisenburger retired the 'Caps in order in the ninth inning to secure the shutout victory.

Loons relief arm Brady Basso (2-2) picked up the win going three innings while allowing no runs on a pair of hits and three strikeouts, as Weisenburger picked up his fourth save in 2021. Whitecaps pitcher Bryce Tassin (0-1) lasted only 0.2 innings, allowing a run on a wild pitch in his first loss on the campaign. Spencer Torkelson finished 2-for-4 with a double, and Daniel Cabrera ended an 0-16 drought notching a pair of base hits despite the slow offensive performance.

UP NEXT

The Whitecaps continue this six-game series at LMCU Ballpark against the Lansing Lugnuts Wednesday at 7:05 pm. West Michigan sends righty and Tigers top-30 prospect Keider Montero to the mound against the Lugnuts Seth Shuman. Broadcast coverage with Dan Hasty begins on the Whitecaps Baseball Network at 6:50 pm. Get your tickets for all 2021 home games now at www.whitecapsbaseball.com.

Check out the West Michigan Whitecaps Statistics

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Midwest League Stories from June 8, 2021


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