Kernels walk-off in wild 9th over River Bandits
Text of release is below: Kernels walk-off in wild 9th over River Bandits CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa -- Both the Cedar Rapids Kernels and Quad Cities River Bandits traded jabs on Thursday evening, but the Kernels came out on top in the end with a 10-9 victory. The River Bandits drew
Text of release is below:
Kernels walk-off in wild 9**th* *over River Bandits**
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa -- Both the Cedar Rapids Kernels and Quad Cities River Bandits traded jabs on Thursday evening, but the Kernels came out on top in the end with a 10-9 victory.
The River Bandits drew first blood with a pair of home runs in the top of the first inning from Michael Massey and John Rave to lead 3-0.
The Kernels got their bats going in the bottom of the third when Yunior Severino destroyed a pitch off of reliever Emilio Marquez for a grand slam to left field, giving the Kernels a 4-3 lead.
The lead grew in the fourth inning when the Kernels added five more runs. The highlight of the inning was a three-run home run from Michael Helman, who now has a team-high 17 home runs on the season. Kernels took a 9-3 lead.
In the top of the ninth, the Kernels led 9-4, but the River Bandits responded with five runs after drawing three walks to start the inning. The tying run came on an RBI single from Parker Bates, scoring Rubendy Jaquez.
The Kernels responded in the bottom half when Helman led off the inning with a double. Matt Wallner then recorded an infield single and the River Bandits intentionally walked Aaron Sabato to load the bases with no outs. On a 2-2 pitch, Yunior Severino grounded to second baseman Michael Massey, who threw home, but Helman was called safe at the plate, scoring the game-winning run.
With the victory, the Kernels stay one game ahead of Great Lakes and Lake County for the second playoff spot in the High-A Central League Championship series.
The Kernels and River Bandits continue their series tomorrow at 6:35 PM, with 2 for 1 Friday and Wizardry Night with scarf giveaway and jersey auction. Other promotions this week include post-game fireworks (9/4), Twins replica jersey auction (9/5), Kids Eat FREE (9/5).
Fans can purchase tickets for all Cedar Rapids Kernels home games by visiting www.kernels.com, going to the Kernels Ticket Office, or calling (319) 896-7560. The Kernels Ticket Office is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturdays. On Sundays when the Kernels have a home game, the Kernels Ticket Office will open at 11:00 a.m.