Kernels crush Chiefs 9-1

Ryan Walker and Tyler Grimes both had 3 hits. Tim Shibuya (3-0) went 7 innings for the win.

By Matt Cozzi

August 25, 2013

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa - Tim Shibuya went 7 strong innings and Ryan Walker and Tyler Grimes each collected three hits in a 9-1 Kernels win over the Peoria Chiefs.

The Kernels built an early lead, posting two runs in the bottom of the 1st. Travis Harrison knocked in Grimes with an RBI single and Bo Altobelli followed that up with an RBI double to score Mike Gonzales.

In the 3rd, Adam Brett Walker singled with 1 out and scored one batter as Gonzales rifled a double down the right field line to give the Kernels a 3-0 lead.

The Kernels recorded a pair of 3-run innings in the 4th and 6th. Ryan Walker doubled and later scored, Jeremias Pineda singled and scored, and Jonathan Murphy walked and scored. Grimes and Gonzales had RBI in the inning. Three straight batters reached base to lead off the 6th. Ryan Walker broke open the contest with a 2-out, 2-RBI single to score Gonzales and Harrison.

Breyvic Valera hit a sacrifice fly in the 6th to drive in Peoria's lone run and end a scoreless streak that spanned 30 innings up to that point.

Shibuya (3-0) went 7 innings in the start on the mound for the Kernels. He allowed one unearned run on three hits while walking one and striking out two. The right-hander threw only 66 pitches in the winning effort and is now 2-0 as a starter this season.

Brett Lee and Alex Muren followed Shibuya out of the bullpen. Lee went 1 hitless and scoreless frame, striking out one. Alex Muren pitched a scoreless 9th.

Peoria starter Cory Jones (7-2) allowed six runs (five earned) on eight hits while walking three and striking out one. Jay Voss pitched 0.2 scoreless innings before exiting the game after being hit by a line drive. Joseph Scanio allowed three runs on three hits in 2 innings. Brady Adamek threw 1 scoreless inning, allowing just one hit. Catcher Gerwuins Velazaco pitched a scoreless 8th. He is the third Chiefs position player to appear on the mound in 2013.

NEXT GAME:Monday, August 26 v. Peoria Chiefs (Cardinals) - 6:35 p.m.

Perfect Game Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium

Cedar Rapids: RHP Tim Atherton (7-4, 2.72) v. Peoria: RHP Chris Perry (2-2, 3.32)

Promotions: Dollar Monday! Get regular hot dogs, small popcorn, ice cream sandwiches, chips, and Cracker Jack for just $1.00!

Tickets: Available at www.kernels.com or at the Kernels Ticket Office at Veterans Memorial Stadium, 319-896-7650 (Monday-Friday 10-5, Saturday 10-2)

Radio: KMRY 1450 AM/93.1 FM & www.kernels.com