Whitecaps top Loons

Cory Middleton hit a two-run home run and the West Michigan Whitecaps notched their third straight victory in the series, defeating the Loons 5-2 Wednesday night at Fifth Third Field.

Jaime Ortiz drove home both Loons’ runs.

The Loons scored first in the first inning. Ortiz recorded an infield single, bringing home Jovanny Rosario, who had walked. On the play, Audy Ciriaco threw wildly, advancing Ortiz to second for Ciriaco’s 40th error of the season.

The Whitecaps surged ahead on a second-inning, two-run home run by Cory Middleton. They tacked on an additional run one inning later. Kyle Peter reached base on a bunt single, then advanced to third on a two-base throwing error by pitcher Given Kutz. Peter later scored on a fly ball by Justin Henry to left fielder Yossandy Garcia. Garcia’s throw home was errant. Peter did not initially attempt to advance, but after Kutz backed up the play, he threw past catcher Kenley Jansen, and Peter scored.

Alex Avila’s two-run single in the eighth gave West Michigan a three-run cushion.

Kutz (4-6) surrendered one earned run (three total) and struck out seven in seven innings en route to the loss. Miguel Ramirez surrendered two runs in his lone inning of work.

Former Michigan Wolverine Andrew Hess (2-3) pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowing two runs (both earned) for the win. Brett Jacobson (1 1/3 inning) and Noah Krol (one inning, 14th save) recorded scoreless outings for the Whitecaps.

Ortiz and Eduardo Perez recorded multi-hit games for the Loons.

The Loons and Whitecaps meet for the final time in 2008 Thursday night at Fifth Third Ballpark. Game time is 7 p.m.

Right-hander Kieran Mattison will start, making his Loons’ debut. He was 0-1 with a 9.42 ERA in nine games with Jacksonville. West Michigan will throw right-hander Brayan Villareal.