By Larry Arreguin |LPL News Wire| April 7, 2026

COMSTOCK PARK, MI (4/7/26) — The West Michigan Whitecaps welcomed a crowd of 4,352 fans to LMCU Ballpark for their 2026 home opener, but a big third inning from the Great Lakes Loons proved to be the difference in a 7–3 loss on a chilly April evening.

Loons Strike Early and Often

The Loons wasted little time setting the tone, capitalizing on early opportunities before breaking the game open in the third inning. After a quiet first two frames, Great Lakes erupted for four runs in the third, highlighted by a two-run home run from Victor Rodrigues (#51), who finished with a game-high three RBIs.

Rodrigues’ blast came with two outs, extending the inning and putting the Whitecaps in an early hole they would struggle to climb out of. The Loons added insurance runs in the fifth and eighth innings, finishing with seven runs on seven hits.

Whitecaps Show Late Life

Offensively, the Whitecaps were held in check for much of the night, managing just three hits. However, they showed resilience late, scoring once in the fifth and adding two runs in the ninth to avoid a shutout.

Second baseman Samuel Gil (#1) led the way, going 2-for-4 and driving in a run, while Roberto Campos (#11) added a hit and scored. Despite drawing seven walks, West Michigan struggled to capitalize, finishing just 1-for-7 with runners in scoring position and leaving six runners on base.

Pitching Tells the Story

Right-hander Gabriel Reyes (#37) took the loss for West Michigan, working 2.2 innings and allowing five runs (one earned) while striking out four. Control issues and defensive miscues extended innings, putting added pressure on the pitching staff early.

Out of the bullpen, the Whitecaps settled in. Relievers combined to limit further damage across the middle innings, but the early deficit proved too much to overcome.

On the other side, Great Lakes starter Aidan Foeller (#24) set the tone, striking out eight over 4.2 innings while allowing just one run. Reliever Myles Caba (#12) earned the win, tossing 1.1 scoreless innings.

By the Numbers

• Final: Loons 7, Whitecaps 3
• Hits: Great Lakes 7, West Michigan 3
• Attendance: 4,352
• Weather: 40 degrees, clear skies

Looking Ahead

Despite the loss, opening night delivered the energy and excitement that comes with the return of baseball to West Michigan. With a long season ahead, the Whitecaps will look to build on their late-inning momentum as they continue their opening homestand against Great Lakes.

LPL News Wire will continue coverage of the Whitecaps throughout the 2026 season, bringing fans closer to the action across West Michigan and beyond.