LocalSportsJournal.com

The West Michigan Whitecaps let a five-run lead get away and lost 7-6 to the host Cedar Rapids Kernels on Thursday in theLSJ Logo incert finale of a three-game series.

The Whitecaps scored four runs in the second inning to take a 5-0 lead. Catcher Arvicent Perez opened the scoring with an RBI single and scored on a base hit from outfielder Derek Hill. Shortstop David Gonzalez added a run when he stole home, and an RBI-single by Brett Pirtle capped the big inning.

The Kernels wasted little time closing the gap to 6-5, then stole the win in the bottom of the ninth inning.

Cedar Rapids loaded the bases against Caps reliever Gerson Moreno with two outs. The Kernels tied the score with an RBI single. The Whitecaps brought in reliever Jon Maciel, who delivered a wild pitch that allowed the winning run to score.

Kernels pitcher Nick Anderson (1-0) earned his first win of the season for a scoreless inning of work, while Moreno (0-1) was dealt his first loss. Gonzalez led the Whitecaps at the plate, going 2-for-4 with a double and run scored.

The Whitecaps continue their six-game road swing with a three-game set against the Quad Cities River Bandits beginning Friday night at 8 p.m.