Cougars Fall Victim to Historic Night
Published on June 5, 2021 under American Association (AA)
Kane County Cougars News Release
GENEVA, Ill. - Kevin McGovern (4-0) etched his name into the league's history books and nearly blanked the Kane County Cougars (8-9) to help the visiting Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks (12-5) guarantee a series win at Northwestern Medicine Field Saturday night. McGovern became the American Association's all-time leader in strikeouts when he punched out Anthony Ray in the 9th inning. It was McGovern's 702nd career strikeout in the American Association, moving past Ben Moore for the lead. He finished with 704 career strikeouts in Fargo-Moorhead's 5-1 win.
Aside from making history, McGovern pitched the first complete game against the Cougars since Paul Balestrieri's no-hitter in 2018 nearly three years from the date. The Cougars' lone run came on a solo homer from Gavin LaValley in the 2nd.
Despite facing productive pitching, the Cougars had some bright spots on the mound of their own. Koby Bishop (0-1) suffered the loss, but was one out away from a quality outing in his professional debut. He finished the day with five and two-third innings, with three runs allowed, no walks and two strikeouts.
The RedHawks used a Nick Shumpert homer in the 5th to tie the game, then took a lead with two runs in the 6th which they never looked back from.
McGovern finished the day with 10 strikeouts, three hits and one walk.
The Cougars now hope to salvage a win to avoid the sweep Sunday afternoon. Gage Hinsz (1-1, 6.58) takes the mound against the Cougars' Scott Harkin (0-0, 3.70). First pitch from Northwestern Medicine Field is scheduled for 1:00. For tickets call 630-232-8811 or visit kccougars.com.
American Association Stories from June 5, 2021
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- Cougars Fall Victim to Historic Night - Kane County Cougars
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