Peoria wins pitchers' duel 1-0
PEORIA, Ill. - The Peoria Chiefs scored an unearned run in the first inning and edged the Kernels 1-0 on Monday night at Dozer Park. The rubber game of the series is on Tuesday night at 7:00 p.m.
Felix Jorge (6-7) suffered the tough-luck loss in 6 2/3 innings on the mound. He allowed an unearned run in the first inning for the game's only tally. Jorge allowed six hits on the night while striking out six and walking one. Jorge has now lasted at least six innings in 20 of his 22 starts this season, going at least five innings in every start.
Darren Seferina led off the home half of the first inning by reaching on a fielding error by second baseman Rafael Valera. Seferina then stole second and reached third on Jorge's wild pitch. Oscar Mercado's RBI single to right field brought in Seferina for the game's only run.
The Kernels (32-31, 73-60) were unable to get to any of the four pitchers that the Chiefs used in the game, recording just four total hits.
Peoria (39-24, 72-59) was led by starter Matt Pearce, who went the first six innings. Pearce (11-10) allowed just three hits while striking out four and walking none. Steve Sabatino and Nick Frey both recorded holds after scoreless innings each. Cedar Rapids threatened in the seventh inning after a walk and single with one out against Sabatino but could not convert. Kyle Grana earned his 22nd save with a perfect ninth inning.
Austin Diemer had two of the four hits for the Kernels as he went 2-for-3.
The final game of the series at Peoria is Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. LHP Sam Clay (0-3, 4.70) starts for the Kernels against Peoria's LHP Ian McKinney (3-0, 2.03).
The Kernels return home on Saturday at 6:35 p.m. as they will host the Clinton LumberKings, the Midwest League affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. Enjoy a spectacular post-game fireworks show following the game! The special jerseys worn by the Kernels this season on Twins Tuesday, presented by Great Clips, will be sold during the game via a silent auction.
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.