Cougars Rally Late to Clinch Series Victory over Canaries
Published on August 1, 2026 under American Association (AA)
Kane County Cougars News Release
GENEVA, IL - The Kane County Cougars (35-31) broke through with three runs in the seventh inning to defeat the Sioux Falls Canaries (36-31) by a 3-1 final Saturday night at Northwestern Medicine Field, securing the series victory behind another outstanding effort from the pitching staff.
TJ Sikkema continued his strong start to life with the Cougars, allowing just two hits and one run over five innings while striking out a season-high eight. The left-hander retired the side in order three times and struck out four consecutive batters during one dominant stretch before exiting with Kane County trailing 1-0.
The Canaries scored their only run in the third inning after back-to-back singles by Joe Vos and Scott Combs put runners on the corners. A passed ball allowed Vos to cross the plate for the game's first run.
Sioux Falls starter Chase Gearing matched Sikkema nearly pitch for pitch, holding the Cougars scoreless through six innings while allowing just three hits and striking out five.
Kane County finally broke through in the seventh against reliever Will Levine (4-4). Sam Dexter reached on a bunt single before Harrison Didawick drew a walk. Josh Allen then ripped a ground-rule double over the right fielder's head to tie the game at 1-1. Matt Bottcher followed with a two-run single into center, scoring Didawick and Allen to give the Cougars their first lead of the night at 3-1.
The bullpen made the advantage stand. Ernie Day bridged the sixth and seventh innings before Jordan Martinson (3-1) retired all four batters he faced, striking out three to earn the victory. Art Warren (2) closed the door in the ninth, working around a walk to record his second save of the season.
Allen and Bottcher delivered the decisive blows in the seventh, while Kane County's pitching staff combined to allow just two hits and struck out 13 Canaries hitters in the victory.
The Cougars will finish their three-game series against the Sioux Falls Canaries tomorrow, August 2nd, at 1 PM at Northwestern Medicine Field. There will be a giveaway of the 2026 Cougars Baseball Team Card Set presented by West Suburban Limo. There will also be an appearance by Bluey. For more information, visit kccougars.com or call 630-232-8811.
American Association Stories from August 1, 2026
- Goldeyes Pull Away from Saltdogs - Lincoln Saltdogs
- Fuentes Grand Slam Leads RedHawks to Victory over Explorers - Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks
- Sioux City's Late Push Falls Short in 10-7 Loss - Sioux City Explorers
- Big Seventh Inning Dooms Canaries - Sioux Falls Canaries
- Cougars Rally Late to Clinch Series Victory over Canaries - Kane County Cougars
- Crown Point Native and Former Cleveland Guardian Signs with RailCats - Gary SouthShore Railcats
- Mosquitoes Bite Early, Cruise Past Lincoln - Winnipeg Goldeyes
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
