Cougars Stung by Bees in Ninth
June 10, 2006 - Midwest League (MWL1)
Kane County Cougars News Release
Burlington, IA - The Kane County Cougars entered Saturday night's series-opening game against the Burlington Bees with a chance to clinch a playoff berth for the ninth time in franchise history, but the Bees scored twice in the bottom of the ninth to turn a 3-2 Cougars lead into a 4-3 loss at Community Field. The Cougars lead over Peoria atop the Western Division is now at two games with seven contests remaining in the first half.
Cougars starter Vince Mazzaro gave up two unearned runs in the bottom of the first inning but settled down to last five innings and scatter seven hits while walking and striking out a pair. The Cougars notched a run in the second against Carlos Rosa, as Frank Martinez drew a bases-loaded walk for a 2-1 deficit. Nick Blasi then delivered a run-scoring single in the fifth to plate Justin Sellers for a 2-2 game.
Relievers Joe Newby and John Herrera combined for three scoreless relief innings, giving the Cougars a chance for the lead heading to the ninth. Frank Martinez singled against Gilbert De La Vara, and Justin Sellers bunted him to second before Blasi connected for a two-out single and a 3-2 score.
Rob Semerano (0-1), trying for his first save this season, allowed the two Burlington tallies in the ninth for the loss. He issued two walks -- one intentional -- and hit a batter, leading to a two-run single from Mario Lisson that ended the game. De La Vara (4-3) took the win.
The Cougars (38-24) and Bees (30-30) play again Sunday afternoon at 2 CDT. Ron Madej (1-1, 1.98) is scheduled to face David Henninger (1-3, 5.67).
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