Matt Long’s homer sends Kernels to 7-5 extra inning win

Beloit, WI – Matt Long's home run in the top of the ninth inning sent the Kernels into extra innings and an eventual 7-5 win over the Beloit Snappers in 11 innings at Pohlman Field in Beloit on Saturday. The win improves the Kernels first half record to 25-17 and moves them into first place by half a game in the MWL Western Division.

In the top of the 11th inning, RBI singles by Luis Jimenez and Justin Bass gave the Kernels their two run advantage and Mike Kenney (1-0) worked around a two out single by Aaron Hicks in the bottom of the inning to preserve the win. Beloit reliever Jhon Garcia (0-1) was tagged with the loss.

Long finished the game 3-5 with two runs scored and two stolen bases. Jimenez and Bass were both 3-5 with 2 RBI. The Kernels drew six walks and stole nine bases in the game as Mike Trout had two to raise his seasons total to 22.

Kernels starter Fabio Martinez allowed five runs (three earned) on five hits, walked six and struck out five over five innings in a no-decision effort. Jeremy Berg and Johnny Hellweg combined to keep the Snappers off the scoreboard over four innings of relief.

Beloit starter Michael Tonkin allowed four runs (three earned) on eight hits and struck out two over 6.1 innings in a no-decision effort. Danny Rams went 2-5 with a double and 2 RBI and Reggie Williams was 1-4 with a double and 2 RBI for the Snappers.

Game three between the Kernels and Snappers is scheduled for Sunday afternoon at 2:00 pm from Pohlman Field in Beloit. John Rodgers brings you the action on the radio home of Kernels baseball, 1450 KMRY AM. Fans may listen on line at www.kmryradio.com, or www.kernels.com.

The Kernels return to Perfect Game Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium on Friday, May 28th and open a four game series with the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers. Tickets may be purchased on line at www.kernels.com, or by calling the Kernels Ticket Office at 896-7560. Ticket office hours are 10 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday, and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday.