Kernels popped by South Bend, 6-4

SOUTH BEND, Ind. - The South Bend Cubs scored four runs in the first inning and went on to knock off the Cedar Rapids Kernes, 6-4, Thursday night at Four Winds Field.

Taking the bruunt of South Bend's early assault was new pitcher Derek Rodriguez, who was just sent to the Kernels from extended spring training. The right-hander, son of former long-time big league all-star catcher Ivan Rodriguez, lasted just three innings, sllowing five hits, four walks and four runs.

Caek Brockmeyer went 3-for-4 for South Bend and drove in a pair of runs,

J.J. Fernandez had a pair of doubles, driving in a run for the Kernels (35-19). Nick Gordon also had a couple of hits and scored once.

The teams conclude their three game series Friday night at 6:35.

Click on the 'Box” icon at the top right of this story to view the game boxscore.