MWL1 Cedar Rapids Kernels

Walk-off redemption

Published on June 12, 2006 under Midwest League (MWL1)
Cedar Rapids Kernels News Release


After just missing a home run that would've kept Sunday's 15-inning marathon from going extra innings, Larry Infante sent the Mix 96.5 Dollar Dog Monday crowd of 2,005 home happy with a walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth inning to give the Kernels (29-36) a 4-3 win over the Fort Wayne Wizards (29-33).

Infante's home run made a complete game winner out of Kernels starter Tommy Mendoza (4-5). Mendoza allowed seven hits and three runs, two on solo home runs by Wizards catcher Nick Hundley.

The Kernels started their 9th inning rally as Hainley Statia walked to lead off the inning. That brought Wizards skipper Randy Ready out of the dugout to call John Madden into the game. Madden had picked up his 5th save the day before in Sunday's marathon.

Brett Martinez promptly singled to left to move Statia over to second. They each moved up a base as Flint Wipke grounded out to third. Mark Trumbo, who had launched a solo home run over the Randy Kuehl Honfidence Pavilion in the fifth, just missed ripping an extra base hit down the third base line, but it was ruled just foul. Mark then chopped a ball to short, which allowed Statia to score from third.

That set the stage for Larry Infante as he lifted the first pitch he saw into the first row of picnic tables for a game winning home run, his second of the season. Infante was mobbed at home by his teammates and even did a brief curtain call as the 2,005 fans roared their approval.

The Kernels only managed five hits on the night as Wizards starter Joel Santo held them to a run and three hits over the eight innings he worked.

The series finale between the Kernels and Wizards takes place at Veterans Memorial Stadium Tuesday at noon, as it's Lunch at the Ballpark, sponsored by Z 102.9. Fans can come out and enjoy a lunch combo of a regular sandwich, chips or popcorn and a soda or beer for just $5.

Check out the Cedar Rapids Kernels Statistics

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Midwest League Stories from June 12, 2006


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