First Baseball Trip of 2007 A Success

The first baseball trip for he kids and I was a huge success this weekend. Despite the weather being in the mid-forties, we were able to bundle up and enjoy some great baseball. The kids enjoyed seeing the Whitecaps mascots Crash and Franky. They do a great job of interacting with all the kids at the game and making it a great experience. We were also able to interact with the players and coaches a bit. Pictured left with Lily, is Whitecaps manager and former World Champion with the Tigers Tom Brookens, who took time to sign some cards for the kids. Hitting coach Benny DiStefano, who played for the Pirates and Astros from 1984-92, gave a game ball to Trevor. We were also able to get some cards signed by Tigers prospects such as Brandon Timm and Josh Rainwater.

Hopfully the weather will be a little friendlier next time, but a great way to start the season for us. See you at the ball park.

Whitecaps Split Double-Header With Silver Hawks

The West Michigan Whitecaps split a double-header with the visiting South Bend Silver Hawks Saturday afternoon at 5/3 Ballpark.

Game one went to the visitors by the score of 2-0. Lauren Gagniar took the lose for the 'Caps, pitching four innings and giving up four hits, including a home-run. Phil Napolitan came in relief, and pitched three great innings. He fanned two and only gave up one hit, but the 'Caps couldn't bolster any offence. They only had three hits in the game by Scott Sizemore, Brennan Boecsh, and Santo DeLeon.

Game two belonged to the 'Caps, who snuck out a 2-1 win. Outfielder Gorkys Hernandez was the star of the game with a double and run scored. He scored the winning run on a passed ball in the third inning. West Michigan's first run was scored by James Skelton who hit a double and was hit home by Boecsh. Diek Scram also had a double in the game. On the mound Angel Castro earned his first win of the season. He gave up six hits, but was able to pitch himself out of a jam in almost every inning. Steve Jensen got his second save of the season, both the 'Caps only wins.

Derek A. Smith Signs With NHL's Senators

Lake Superior State Junior defenseman Derek A. Smith signed a two-year free agent contract with the Ottawa Senators on Thursday, April 12. Smith had a break-through year with the Lakers this season, tying for the team lead in points with 30 (10g-20a) with Trent Campbell and Troy Schwab. He was a +6 on the season, and only took five minutes in penalties. Smith was also a finalist for the CCHA Offensive Defenseman Award.

Here's the official story from the Lakers website:

http://lssulakers.cstv.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/042407aaa.html