'Caps Drop Two To Chiefs

Not a good weekend for the Whitecaps, as they dropped two games to the Peoria Chiefs. The West Michigan bats were dismal in both games, scoring just three runs total.

On Saturday, Mauricio Robles pitched six shutout innings for the 'Caps before Wilton Garcia gave up two runs in the top of the seventh. Catcher Alex Avila had two hits for the 'Caps while second baseman Justin Henry (pictured hitting) also had a hit.

In Sundays game, the Whitecaps came out and scored two quick runs off Chicago Cubs pitcher Scott Eyre who was rehabbing with the Chiefs. Unfortunately, they would add little more offence. Pitcher Alfredo Figaro (pictured) pitched a beauty of a game, going 6.2 innings and giving up one un-earned run. He only gave up three hits, and struck out five. The 'Caps couldn't hold the lead, and the game went into extra innings after Peoria tied it up in the seventh. The Chiefs would take the lead after scoring two runs in the tenth. The 'Caps came close to tying the game back up when Keith Stein hit his first home run to cut the lead to one. Hayden Parrot was one first after being hit by a pitch, but was thrown out trying to steal. Stein also got his first MWL hit in the game. Justin Henry and Kody Kaiser both got a hit and scored a run in the game.

Wet And Wild Week In Baseball

We were lucky to get a game in Tuesday, but weren't as fortunate on Thursday as we got rained out. Tuesday we still had a lot of fun, though. Only seven showed up, but that gives the kids who are there more of a chance to play. Lily and Trevor both did great scooping up baseballs in the field. A few got through but they did a great job. Both of there throws are getting a lot better, too. At bat they still struggled a bit. We really need to get out and do some practice with this. I think they're just excited, and try swinging a little too hard. Lily hit two grounders, and Trevor hit a grounder and a decent line drive. I can't believe that next week is the last week. This really made the summer fly by.

Kids Enjoy America's Pastime

We were lucky enough to get in another full week of baseball. Tuesday we had team pictures taken, so that was exciting for the kids. Lily had one of her best hits ever in the game, driving it on the fly over the heads of the infielders. She hit that one right handed, so she's been hitting that way ever since. I try to get both of them to hit from each side during the game. Trevor had two solid hits as well. In the field, they both made some good plays and throws to first. Lily played first base in the second inning, and did a really good job of catching the ball and getting in front of it. Trevor made a really nice scoop in the inning also.

On Thursday, we only had five show up, so we batted each player four times in stead of two. Trevor was the last batter in the first inning, so got a 'home run' in the game. It seemed like most of the kids were having trouble hitting today, probably just excited about the 4th being a day away and hard to concentrate. Trevor played first base in the second inning and had to be reminded EVERY play that the ball was being thrown to him. He didn't do a bad job, though. Lily had a headache tonight, too, which may explain her trouble at the plate and she sat out a bit in the field. Getting ready for the fireworks, though, and we hope the whole team has a safe and fun Independence Day.

Kids Rule St. Ignace Car Show

The kids and I had a fun at this year's annual car show in St. Ignace. Evan Brian joined in on the fun (you can see the stroller to the right of the Trans Am). The kids were in awe of all of the cool old cars. Trevor, being a 'car guy', especially enjoyed himself. Unfortunately, we didn't get much into the parade before getting rained on. I wanted to get my Firebird up and running by this time, but too many other things going on. We will definitely be going again next year to see these great old cars from all over the country.

Full Week Of Baseball

For the first time this season, we actually got two games in one week. Tuesday we had eight players show up, but still had a good time. Trevor was our lead-off hitter, and Lily was last so she hit a 'home run' in her two turns at bat. Trevor had two solid hits, too. In the field they both were able to make some good plays. They're starting to learn to just get in front of the ball and knock it down.

On Thursday, we had seven in the line-up. Eight showed up, but left during the game. Not sure why, but it's the first time he's been here since the first game. Trevor got his first 'homer', too, as he was our last batter. Lily had a little trouble hitting tonight, but we adjusted the tee and she did all right. Trevor hit the tar out of the ball, though. In the field Lily was all over the place, while Trevor took post by second base. Not much action out that way, but as long as they have fun. Next week we have team pictures and will play the day before the fourth.

Getting An Early Start

We're getting Brian ready for baseball pretty early. He looks like a natural to me. Actually, just looking for an excuse to get the baby some time on the website. Brian's a very happy baby and loves playing with his brother and sister. When the weather warms up, he'll be cheering them on in Little League. Enjoy the video.

Play Ball!!!-Finally!!!

After almost two full weeks of rain-outs, we finally got to play another Little League game. Left is a pic of Lily and Trevor with some of our other teammates. The team was pumped, and played great baseball. Lily and Trevor both hit the ball very well. They both had two line drives up the middle. In the field, Trevor played first base in the first inning and did well. In the second, he was able to field some ground balls, too. Lily got on grounder, but didn't have much else hit her way.

Nana and Papa made the trip from Cadillac to watch the grandkids play. They also got to play catch with Papa for awhile at the park, too. Madison's mom brought snacks this week of grapes and juice. All around fun night. I hope the weather holds up next week, too, so we can get more of the games in.