Cedar Rapids Kernels News: August 9 - August 15, 2024

Cedar Rapids Kernels: A Week of Ups and Downs

Series Against Great Lakes

The Cedar Rapids Kernels, the High-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins, have had a mixed bag of results over the past week. The team has shown resilience and determination, but also faced some tough challenges. Let's take a closer look at their recent performances.

The Kernels started the week with a series against the Great Lakes Loons. The series began on a high note with a thrilling walk-off win in the first game, where the Kernels came from behind to defeat the Loons 4-3. However, the Loons bounced back in the next two games, with Jackson Ferris no-hitting the Kernels through eight innings in one of the games, leading to a 6-1 loss for Cedar Rapids. The Loons also handed the Kernels their largest loss of the season, a 15-3 rout.

Series Against Peoria

The Kernels then traveled to Peoria to face the Chiefs. In the series finale, Cedar Rapids managed to edge out Peoria 4-3 in a closely contested game. The Kernels' bullpen was key to their victory, scattering just three hits and not allowing a run over 5 ⅓ innings.

Series Against Beloit

In their series against the Beloit Sky Carp, the Kernels experienced a mix of results. They came from behind to win two games in extra innings, 3-2 and 4-2, showcasing their ability to rally under pressure. However, they also suffered a 9-4 loss after Beloit scored six runs in the first inning.

Standout Performances

Several players have stood out for the Kernels over the past week. Luke Keaschall had an impressive week, batting .500 with a 1.420 OPS, two home runs, and two doubles. Kevin Maitan made a strong debut in the Twins organization, homering and going 4-for-13 in his first three games. Rubel Cespedes hit .364 with a pair of stolen bases, and Misael Urbina also stole a pair of bases. On the pitching side, John Klein posted a one-hit start across six innings of work, striking out six and walking just one.

Conclusion

The Cedar Rapids Kernels have shown both strength and vulnerability over the past week. While they have had some impressive wins, they have also faced significant challenges. The team's ability to rally and come from behind has been a highlight, but they will need to work on consistency to maintain their position in the standings. With a strong lineup and bullpen, the Kernels are poised to continue making waves in the Midwest League.