Down on the Farm: Kane County Cougars win again, 2-1

Batters were able to put hits together, but no one was able to push a run across the plate until the bottom of the fourth inning.

Starting pitcher Ryan Skulina was the man who took the mound for the Cougars today. Skulina was charged with that earned run during the bottom of the fourth as he allowed the Cedar Rapids Kernels to take a 1-0 lead. He would work through five innings, issue one walk and strike out two before he was pulled and replaced by Nathan Dorris.

Dorris would work through only two innings, allowing the Kernels to pick up two hits but was able to strike out two as well. The Cougars would tie the game during the top of the sixth inning thanks to a ground out by outfielder Yasiel Balaguert to make it 1-1. Jacob Hannemann would help the Cougars take a one run lead during the top of the seventh on a bunt single.

Right-hander Zack Godley would come in to replace Dorris and work the final two innings of the game. He would give up only one hit but strike out five batters to shut down the Kernels in the ninth.

Winning pitcher is Nathan Dorris (3-1, 1.29 ERA), losing pitcher is Brandon Bixler (1-1, 0.73 ERA) with the save being awarded to Zack Godley (5).

Final Score: Cougars 2, Kernels 1.

Kane County Cougars improve to 18-7 on the year.