Gibbons’ shutout lifts Kernels past Kane County

GENEVA, Ill. - Sam Gibbons is in a zone right now.

The Cedar Rapids Kernels pitcher threw a complete-game four-hitter to beat the Kane County Cougars, 7-0, Saturday night. The Australian right-hander increased his scoreless streak to 21 2/3 innings.

Gibbons (5-2) walked one, hit one and struck out a season-high nine. He retired 10 batters in a row at one point.

The Kernels (62-44, 21-15) scored twice in the top of the third for the only runs they would need. Both runs were unearned.

Cedar Rapids scored three more unearned runs in the fifth for a 5-0 lead. Alex Real had a two-run double.

Real and Rafael Valera had two hits apiece for the Kernels. Nick Gordon extended his on-base streak to 11 straight games with a first-inning single. Zack Larson on-base streak reached 12 games with a first-inning walks.

The teams conclude their three-game series Sunday afternoon at 1:05.