The West Michigan Whitecaps Are A Must-see This Season

Everyone's attention has been on the Grand Rapids Griffins since they recently won the Calder Cup. The West Michigan Whitecaps deserve some recognition for the season that they've had to this point.

The Whitecaps are 43-22 this season. They currently hold the best record in the Midwest League. West Michigan holds a four game lead for first place over the Dayton Dragons in the eastern division.

West Michigan's strong point this season has been on the mound. As a team, they lead the Midwest League in a number of pitching categories. To be specific, ERA (2.57) and strikeouts (617) are the most important.

Austin Sodders has been the best pitcher on their staff. In 11 starts, Sodders is 7-0 with a 1.40 ERA. He has 65 strikeouts in just over 64 innings pitched. Anthony Castro has had a great season as well. In 11 starts, Castro is 6-1 with a 2.29 ERA.

The Whitecaps have been productive at the plate this season as well. Blaise Salter has led the way for his team. He leads the Whitecaps in RBI's (52) and slugging percentage (.498). Jake Robson has been a catalyst for the offense this season as well. Robson leads the team in batting average (.329) and on-base percentage (.408).

They have plenty to do at Fifth Third Ballpark to go along with all this talent on the field. Tuesday nights at the ballpark offer ten cent hot dogs to fans. On Thursday nights, fans can get 20 oz beers for two dollars as well as hot dogs for the same price. Saturday nights offer fireworks after the end of the game as well.

The next time the Whitecaps will be home at Fifth Third Ballpark is June 22nd. They will host the Lansing Lugnuts for a four-game weekend series. If you're looking a family night or a chance to watch some great baseball, the ballpark is the place to be. You might just see some of these guys playing at Comerica Park in Detroit one day.