Kernels fall to Kane County, 6-2

Geneva, IL – The Kane County Cougars defeated the Cedar Rapids Kernels by the score of 6-2 on Thursday night at Elfstrom Stadium in Geneva, IL. Kane County starter Murphy Smith improved to 6-0 on the year, holding the Kernels to just three hits and striking out three over six innings.

The Cougars jumped out to a 6-0 lead on Kernels starter Ariel Pena (5-4) as he allowed six runs (four earned) on eight hits, walked three and struck out four over 5.2 innings. Matt Oye allowed two hits over 2.1 innings of relief, with a walk and a strikeout.

Mitch LeVier went 2-4 with a double and 2 RBI for the Cougars and Connor Crumbliss added a solo home run in the third inning. Rashun Dixon and Tyreace House each had two hits for Kane County. Matt Long and Justin Bass were both 1-4 with an RBI for the Kernels as Jean Segrua went 2-4 with a double and Jeremy Cruz was 1-4 with a double.

The Kernels will look to get the series split on Friday night at 7:00 pm as John Rodgers brings you the action on the radio home of Kernels baseball, 1450 KMRY AM. Fans may listen on-line at www.kmryradio.com, or www.kernels.com.

The Kernels return to Perfect Game Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium on Saturday, August 7th and open a seven game home stand with games against Beloit and Kane County. Tickets may be purchased on-line at www.kernels.com, or by calling the Kernels Ticket Office at 896-7560. Ticket office hours are 10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday, and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday.