Finch, Bandits roll past Diamonds 7-0

The Chicago Bandits used 3 home runs and a 2-hit, 10-strikeout performance from Jennie Finch (2-1) in a 7-0 shutout of the host Tennessee Diamonds on Thursday.

The Bandits wasted little time getting on the scoreboard as Vicky Galindo, the second batter in the game, slammed a solo home run. Finch helped herself out with a single to right-center that scored Rachel Folden, who slid in with run No. 2.

Folden led off the third inning with a blast over the center-field fence to give the Bandits a 3-0 lead.

Samantha Findlay hit a towering 3-run homer to put the game out of reach.

Cougars 5, Silver Hawks 0: Kane County Cougars left-hander Justin Marks delivered his sixth quality start of the season Thursday night and notched his second straight 10-strikeout performance, leading the team to victory over the South Bend Silver Hawks in front of 7,182 at Elfstrom Stadium. The Cougars have won 10 of their last 13 series - including five straight - and 10 of their last 13 games.

Riverhawks 12, Fielders 6: The second half of the season didn't get off to the start the Lake County Fielders were looking for against host Rockford.

Lake County pitcher Ryan Bicondoa kept battling and kept both himself and his team in the ballgame until the floodgates opened up. Bicondoa didn't figure in the decision but threw 61/3 innings, scattering 7 hits. He gave up 6 runs, 5 of which were earned, while walking three and striking out three.