Cedar Rapids Kernels swept, out of MWL playoff spot

PEORIA, Ill. - In a matter of three days, the Cedar Rapids Kernels went from first place in the Midwest League's Western Division to out of the playoffs altogether.

The Peoria Chiefs scored three runs in the third inning and defeated the Kernels, 3-1, Sunday afternoon to complete a three-game series sweep.

Peoria (36-27) is 2 1/2 games ahead of Cedar Rapids for first place in the Western Division. The Kernels (33-29) are now a game behind Clinton for second place in the division and the final first-half playoff spot.

A J.J. Fernandez sacrifice fly put the Kernels on top, 1-0, in the second inning. A two-run single by Jose Godoy capped Peoria's third-inning rally against Kernels starting pitcher Dereck Rodriguez (1-8).

Cedar Rapids returns home to begin a three-game series against Burlington beginning Monday night at 6:35.