Walk-off single sinks Kernels in series opener

Randy Rosario struck out a season-high eight in a no-decision on Friday evening.

By Jared Shlensky

August 21, 2015

CLINTON, Iowa. - The Clinton LumberKings claimed the series opener over the Cedar Rapids Kernels, 2-1, on Austin Cousino's walk-off single with two outs in the bottom of the ninth. Wayne Taylor led off the frame with a triple to center and came into score on Cousino's two-out walk-off single.

Randy Rosario recorded a no-decision in the start. Rosario retired 11 in a row at one point and yielded one run on two hits and a walk while striking out a season-high eight in a season-high seven innings. Sean Miller led the Kernels offense with two hits. Miller went 2-for-4 with a double and a run.

Cedar Rapids (29-24, 70-53) jumped out to a 1-0 lead with a run in the top of the third. Sean Miller led off the inning with a double to right. Miller then advanced to third on a passed ball before coming in to score on a wild pitch.

Clinton (13-40, 39-83) evened the game at 1-1 with a run in the bottom of the fourth. Brock Hebert led off the frame with a double to right. Cousino then flied out to center, advancing Hebert to third. Gianfranco Wawoe followed Cousino with a sacrifice fly to center, scoring Hebert from third.

Luke Bard (7-1) suffered the loss for Cedar Rapids. Bard allowed one run on two hits and struck out four over 1 2/3 innings.

Pat Peterson (8-6) earned the win for Clinton. Peterson yielded one hit and struck out two in an inning of relief.

The Kernels continue a three-game commuter road series v. the Clinton LumberKings on Saturday. First pitch in the middle game is at 6:30 p.m. from Ashford University Field. RHP Sam Gibbons (6-3, 3.03) gets the start for Cedar Rapids while RHP Zack Littell (3-6, 4.01) counters for Clinton.

Cedar Rapids returns home for a six-game homestand on Monday, August 24th, v. the Peoria Chiefs. Monday's game is a Mark Down Monday. Get regular hot dogs for just $1.50, plus small popcorn, ice cream sandwiches, chips and Cracker Jacks are each just $1 every Monday home game.

Tickets are available online at www.kernels.com. You can also visit the Kernels Ticket Office at Veterans Memorial Stadium or call 319-896-7560. Morgan Hawk brings you the action of Kernels games live on KMRY Radio (93.1 FM/1450 AM) and online at www.kernels.com.