Whitecaps Win In 14

It took 14 innings, but the Western Michigan Whitecaps (Tigers) won a 1-0 14-inning marathon against the Dayton Dragons (Reds).

Justin Justice led off the top of the 14th with a triple. Pedro Cotto drove in Justice with a sacrifice fly to center field.

Five Whitecaps pitchers combined for the shutout, which trimmed West Michigan’s Midwest League-lead team ERA back to an even 3.00.

Scheduled starter Luke French was a late scratch due to a flu-like illness that has affected most of the team.

Josh Kauten made the spot start and threw five scoreless innings with just one hit allowed. In fact, Kauten retired the last 14 batters that he faced.

Paul Hammond and Ricky Steik each chipped in three innings on the mound for the Whitecaps. Jose Fragoso pitched the 12th and Matt Rusch (9-3) threw the 13th and 14th to earn his ninth win in relief.

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Western Michigan and Dayton play in the Midwest League (Class A).