Buxton strong, Kernels lose again to Burlington

CEDAR RAPIDS - Top prospect Byron Buxton singled three times and picked up his 38th RBI of the season, but the Cedar Rapids Kernels (30-18) continued to slip Monday, losing game one of a doubleheader to the Burlington Bees, 10-3.

Buxton also walked, scored a run and stole his 23rd base in the seven-inning loss. The Cedar Rapids outfielder was batting a team-leading .328 at the conclusion of game one.

The loss was the Kernels' fifth straight. Starting pitcher Brett Lee (3-3) picked up the loss, giving up six hits and six runs (five earned) in just four innings of work.

Buxton was one of only three Kernels to get a hit Monday afternoon at Veterans Memorial Stadium. Dalton Hicks finished 2 for 3 with a RBI and Candido Pimentel (1 for 3) singled to raise his season average to .263.

Alex Keudell (4-1) pitched six innings in a winning effort for the Bees (18-26), surrendering six hits and five walks while striking out six.

The Kernels still hold a two-game lead over Beloit for the best record in the Western Division of the Midwest League.

Cedar Rapids

dropped game two of the doubleheader, 6-3.