Kernels capitalize on Loons mistakes

The Great Lakes Loons committed a season-high four errors leading to four unearned runs, and the Loons’ offense left 11 runners on base en route to a 4-0 loss to the Cedar Rapids Kernels Monday.

In the fourth inning, third baseman Pedro Baez made an errant throw to home plate allowing the Kernels’ first run to score. Later in the frame with two outs, Tyler Johnson tripled to left-center to bring home two more unearned runs.

Cedar Rapids added another unearned run in the seventh inning on a ground ball mishandled by first baseman Brian Mathews.

The struggles continued for the Loons offensively on this road trip. In the last five games, the Loons (5-6) have scored a combined five runs and are just 1-4.

Justin Miller (1-1) started for the Loons and picked up a tough-luck loss. Jovanny Rosario added two hits to up his hitting streak to 11 games.

“We hit balls hard tonight, but we hit the ball right at them,” said Loons Manager Juan Bustabad. “Our pitching was good enough to win, but committing four errors hurt – they were the difference in the game. We had opportunities, but didn’t string hits together. Our pitching was really good, but they didn’t get any support.”

The Loons-Kernels series continues from Dale and Thomas Popcorn Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium Tuesday night. Right-hander Brian Morris (0-1) will start for the Loons against left-hander Robert Fish (1-0). Game time is 7:30 p.m.