FORT WAYNE – An early two-run lead evaporated for the TinCaps, as the West Michigan Whitecaps took control and topped Fort Wayne, 8-3, on Monday night at Parkview Field.

The TinCaps (35-29) scored a pair of runs in the bottom of the first inning, but West Michigan (36-25) scored the next eight runs of the series opener.

TinCaps catcher Austin Allen (3-for-4) collected three doubles to pace the offense. His RBI two-bagger in the first scored center fielder Michael Gettys, who had reached on an error that allowed left fielder Kodie Tidwell to score.

But the Whitecaps scored two in the second, one in the third, two in the fifth and three in the sixth to coast the victory.

Tidwell reeled in pinch hitter Brad Zunica with an RBI single to left field in the ninth to trim the margin to 8-3.

The TinCaps began the night two games behind second-place Lake County in the Eastern Division.

West Michigan All-Star left-handed starter Matt Hall (W, 8-0) allowed two runs (one earned) in six innings.

TinCaps starting pitcher Jerry Keel (L, 3-5) allowed three runs in three innings in his first professional start.

The two teams will meet again at 7:05 p.m. Tuesday evening.