Kernels split a pair at Peoria

PEORIA, Ill. - Peoria scored nine runs in the first inning of the nightcap last night to salvage a split with Cedar Rapids in a Midwest League doubleheader at O'Brien Field.

The Chiefs coasted to a 10-5 victory after getting eight hits in that first-inning uprising, helped along by three Kernels errors.

Kernels starter Carson Andrew (1-1) stuck around for the second inning and took the loss. He gave up nine runs, but just two were earned. Yeison Almeida replaced Andrew in the third and finished the game, allowing three hits and one run in four innings.

Jeremy Cruz and Randal Grichuk each had three hits for the Kernels.

Peoria also started strong in the first game with two runs in the first, but the Kernels responded with four in the second en route to a 6-3 victory.

John Karcich had a two-run single in the second. Michael Wing and Matt Long also drove in runs. Wing had three hits in the game.

Buddy Boshers (3-0) went the distance, allowing eight hits and striking out seven in seven innings.

The teams play tonight at 6:30 (KMRY-AM 1450).