Javier Dazzles as Bandits Best Kernels 6-2

The Quad Cities River Bandits took advantage of two Cedar Rapids miscues to put together a big second inning and hold on for a 6-2 win over the Kernels at Veterans Memorial Stadium on Wednesday afternoon. Starting pitcher Cristian Javier struck out ten hitters, a new single-game high for a Bandits pitcher this season.
Both Miguelangel Sierra and Jake Adams reached on groundballs to the left side that were misplayed by Kernels defenders to open the second stanza. Bryan De La Cruz followed by punching an RBI single into right field to open the scoring. With two runners in scoring position, Michael Papierski grounded a ball up the middle that hit the pitcher, Tyler Watson, and deflected into right field. Both runners scored and the lead was 3-0. Cody Bohanek launched a two-run home run to left field in the ensuing at bat as the lead grew to 5-0. All five of the runs were unearned.
Javier entered the fifth inning have worked four scoreless, hitless innings. In that frame, however, Cedar Rapids scored two runs on three extra-base hits to cut the lead to 5-2. Both Jose Miranda and Akil Baddoo came through with run-scoring doubles.

The final run of the game was scored by the River Bandits in the top of the seventh. Colton Shaver hammered a line drive home run to left field, his third of the season, to extend the advantage to 6-2.
Javier wound up tossing 5.0 innings, while allowing two runs on three hits with a pair of walks. Adam Bleday came out of the bullpen and earned the save by pitching the final 2.0 innings. Bleday gave up one hit and did not allow a run, walking one and striking out three.
The River Bandits (20-17) and Kernels (17-16) will meet for the second game of the twin bill tonight at 6:35 p.m. The River Bandits will turn to RHP Luis Garcia (1-1, 1.64) as Cedar Rapids goes with RHP Randy Dobnak (3-1, 4.91).
All River Bandits games are broadcast on 1170 K-BOB and TuneIn Radio. Home games are also available with video on MiLB.TV.