September 4, 2010 - ZION, Ill. – Former Rockford pitcher John Brownell struck out a season-high 14 on Saturday as the Lake County Fielders beat the RiverHawks, 14-1.
Brownell beat the RiverHawks for the first time in more than two years. He had a shutout until the eighth inning and finished with a five-hitter. Bronwell walked two and faced five batters over the minimum. Brownell (4-9) won for just the second time in his last nine starts.
Josh Short hit a grand slam for the Fielders. Rockford rookie Franco Valdes broke the shutout with a home run, his second against the Fielders in as many nights.
The Fielders broke a scoreless tie with a four-run second inning. Amos Ramon led off with a single and stole second base. Rockford starter Kyle Ruwe hit Jeff Dunbar and Anthony Esquer singled in Ramon. After Lake County loaded the bases, Kyle Higgins hit a sacrifice fly and Josh Short singled in two with a two-out grounder up the middle.
Brownell improved to 2-4 lifetime against the RiverHawks, for whom he pitched early in 2007. His other win was a 6-1 decision while with the Kalamazoo Kings of the Frontier League on June 8, 2008. The RiverHawks moved to the Northern League after the 2009 season.
Ruwe (6-9) gave up eight runs on 10 hits over five innings. He became the first pitcher in team history to take nine defeats in a season.
The RiverHawks are on the air for Sunday’s 1 p.m. game against the Fielders. Monday’s season finale is scheduled for 6 p.m. and will be broadcast live.
The RiverHawks are members of the Northern League, an eight-team independent professional baseball league in its 18th season. Advertising and season-ticket information for the 2011 season is available by calling (815) 885-2255. Games are broadcast live on ESPN 1380 (WTJK-AM) and on ESPN1380.com. Fans can also visit the RiverHawks online at www.rockfordriverhawks.com.
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