Reflections from a recent visit to Cedar Rapids

[AlLagoon]

I was there Thursday 6/4 thru Saturday 6/6.

• Marek Houston is very good. His fielding is fluid and easy. He takes a good at bat. He didn't play Thursday, but went 5 for 8 the next 2 nights, including a 2 dinger game. He has that natural athleticism.

• Eduardo Tait is amazing as a 19 year old. Also had a 2 dinger game. Caught a couple guys stealing, although a few more got through. He is entusiastic.

• Brandon Winokor: big 3 run dinger to ultimately win the game Saturday. He takes walks. Good looking player.

Oh, and Houston and Winokur can run, stealing their 15th and 14th bases respectively. 

Other guys who looked good were Jay Thomasson and Quinn McDaniel, holding down the lower middle of the order.

The pitcher who impressed me was Riley Quick. He pitched 4 shutout innings, 2 hits, 1 run, 0BB, 6K.

All in all, the top prospects impressed.

If you have never been down to Cedar Rapids to watch the Kernels, I couldn't recommend the experience higher. They've gone through 2 major disasters, the devastating 2008 flood, and the 2020 derecho. They've done a great job of rebounding, and folks are as nice as can be down there.

[Dave Borton]

14 hours ago, AlLagoon said:

...

If you have never been down to Cedar Rapids to watch the Kernels, I couldn't recommend the experience higher. They've gone through 2 major disasters, the devastating 2008 flood, and the 2020 derecho. They've done a great job of rebounding, and folks are as nice as can be down there.

We have been there twice.

It was a throwback for me. Baseball before big business dictated the game. 

Refreshing. Americana. Everyone pleasant. Small town atmosphere. Folks greet and chat. Kids on the field enthusiastic. Raw talent, not fully polished and harnessed. Reasonable prices on food.

Go there.