Kernels blast Kane County, 7-2, in season opener

GENEVA, Ill. - Starting pitcher Mat Batts threw strongly into the sixth inning, and eight of nine players in the lineup either had a hit or RBI as the Cedar Rapids Kernels began their 2015 Midwest League season with a 7-2 win Thursday night over the Kane County Cougars.

The teams play again Friday night at 6:35.

The Kernels broke a scoreless tie with three runs in the top of the sixth inning, added another run in the seventh and three more in the ninth. Nick Gordon, Zack Larson, Trey Vavra, Jonatan Hinojosa and Brian Naverreto each had a pair of hits.

Runs were driven in by Gordon, Larson, Hinojosa, Navarretto and T.J. White. Batts allowed two hits and a run in 5 2/3 innings, striking out seven and getting the win.

Jared Wilson and Cameron Booser finished up, with Booser's two innings of relief work getting him a save.

Click on 'Box” at top of take for look at game boxscore.