Wednesday, August 31, 2005


West Michigan Whitecaps -'Caps clinch playoff berth
Happy happy, joy joy...

COMSTOCK PARK, MI - With a 3-1 victory over the South Bend Silver Hawks, the West Michigan Whitecaps have secured a spot in the 2005 Midwest League Playoffs.

The post season begins September 7 with the defending Midwest League Champion Whitecaps hosting Game One of the first round at Fifth Third Ballpark at 7 p.m. The final second half standings are yet to be determined, which means the 'Caps are not sure which Eastern Division opponent they will face in the first round.

The Silver Hawks won the Eastern Division first half and the Fort Wayne Wizards took the first half wild card spot. Should the Whitecaps remain ahead of the Southwest Michigan Devil Rays in the second-half standings they will play the Wizards in the first round.

In the Game: Jeff Hahn improved to 4-1 in his first five starts with the Whitecaps by pitching six innings with four hits and one run allowed against South Bend.

The West Michigan bullpen was perfect over three innings to secure the victory. Freddy Dolsi, Ed Clelland and Kevin Whelan each pitched an inning of relief for the Whitecaps. Whelan struck out two in the ninth to earn his ninth save in nine opportunities.

Matt Walbeck for Cubs manager! Please? Pretty please?