Big 8th inning lifts Kernels past Quad Cities

DAVENPORT - The Cedar Rapids Kernels scored three runs in the eighth inning to knock off the Quad Cities River Bandits, 5-2, Monday night at Modern Woodmen Park.

B.K. Santy's two-run double the other way to right field scored two to break a 2-2 tie. An Engelb Vielma sacrifice fly followed.

Brandon Bixler (2-1) threw two hitless relief innings for the victory. Hudson Boyd threw a perfect ninth for his fifth save.

Zack Larson had three hits and a pair of RBIs for the Kernels (18-12), who have won three straight. Starting pitcher Ethan Mildren threw six strong innings in a no decision (four hits, two runs, one earned).

In a brutal schedule twist, the Kernels returned home after midnight Tuesday, then had to be back on their bus at 8 a.m. for an 11 a.m. game at MWP. The teams play commuter series.