By Larry Arreguin |LPL News Wire| April 4, 2026

COMSTOCK PARK, MI — The West Michigan Whitecaps closed out their road series with a 6–3 loss to the Lake County Captains but still walked away with a strong showing, taking two of three games on the road.

Despite dropping the finale, the Whitecaps continue to build momentum early in the season behind timely hitting and promising pitching performances. One of the biggest storylines heading into the next series is right-hander Hayden Minton (#27), the likely starter for the upcoming home opener. Minton is coming off an impressive outing in which he tossed four innings of no-hit baseball while striking out five, setting the tone for what could be a strong presence on the mound.

Offensively, the Whitecaps have shown flashes of consistency. Woody Hadeen (#6) delivered a standout performance in the opening game of the series, going 4-for-5 at the plate, while Stephen Hurstick (#15) came through in the finale, finishing 2-for-3 with three RBIs to help keep West Michigan within striking distance.

Home Opener Set for April 7

All eyes now shift to the highly anticipated home opener on Tuesday, April 7 at 6:35 p.m., when the Whitecaps return to LMCU Ballpark to face the Great Lakes Loons.

Fans attending the opener can expect a full night of celebration and promotions:

• The first 2,000 fans will receive a replica 2025 championship ring
• Fans who bring a church bulletin can receive half-off box seats
• A postgame fireworks show will cap off the evening

With excitement building and tickets still available, the home opener promises to be one of the early highlights of the season.

Under the leadership of manager René Rivera, the defending Midwest League champions look to carry their early success into front of the home crowd and set the tone for the season ahead.

For continued coverage of the Whitecaps and baseball across Michigan, stay connected with La Prensa Latina News Wire