Cougars blast Bees for 11-1 victory

BURLINGTON, Iowa - After blowing a 4-run lead the night before, the Kane County Cougars (22-21, 61-49) came out with a vengeance Sunday afternoon in a 11-1 triumph over the Burlington Bees (16-27, 47-65). In the first inning, the Cougars plated five decisive runs, putting up four more in the sixth in support of righty Connor Grey (1-1), who won his first Midwest League start.

With the win, the Cougars move to 4-1 on the road trip, ensuring a winning seven straight games in Iowa.

In a brisk beginning, the Cougars put up a five spot in the first inning, sending losing righty starter Chris Rodriguez (0-1) out of the game. With Anfernee Grier aboard, Marcus Wilson lashed his 16th double of the season to drive in a run. Yan Sanchez followed up with an RBI single. Already with a three run cushion, Stephen Smith drove in two more to cap-off the big inning.

After giving up one run in the first, winning righty Connor Grey (1-1) put on a show. Earning his first Midwest League win, Grey lasted six quality innings on six hits, one run (one earned), with six strikeouts and no walks.

In more offensive support, the Cougars posted a four-run top of the sixth. With a three-run home run, Stephen Smith belted his first as a Cougar. Ramon Hernandez then ripped an RBI single as the Cougars led 9-1.

The Cougars would tack on two more runs as righty Cody Clark (0-1), and lefty Anfernee Benitez (0-1) flashed fine outings from the bullpen to close the door. The Cougars and Bees meet again for game three of the series on Monday night at 6:30 p.m.

On the mound for the Cougars, right-hander Sam McWilliams (10-5, 2.68 ERA) battles righty Erik Manoah (5-7, 4.02 ERA). The radio pregame coverage begins at 6:15 p.m. on AM 1280 WBIG and kccougars.com.