Williams leads hit parade for Kernels
J.D. Williams is a happy guy who always has a smile for everyone, but the Cedar Rapids Kernels outfielder was extra happy Tuesday.
Williams broke out of a slump and went 4-for-4 with a home run and four RBIs as the Kernels belted the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, 15-5, before 2,424 fans at Veterans Memorial Stadium.
Cedar Rapids collected a season-high 19 hits and scored its second-most runs this year, trailing only a 16-run output at Beloit May 27.
Kernels relief pitcher Nick Burdi entertained the fans in the seventh inning with a 101 mph fastball and three strikeouts, a much-needed boost of confidence after walking four straight batters in his debut here last week.
Burdi hit 100 and 101 on the radar gun and had a dozen other pitchers that were clocked in the high 90's, a rare feat for a pitcher.