Hot Rods centerfielder Carl Chester had two hits and two RBI in Bowling Green’s Game 3 win over the Peoria Chiefs. (Photo by Craig Wieczorkiewicz/The Midwest League Traveler)

The Bowling Green Hot Rods beat the Peoria Chiefs 6-1 in Game 3 of the Midwest League Championship Series, putting them one win away from their first MWL title.

Meanwhile, the Chiefs look to win the last two games of the series to win their first championship since 2002, but they would have to do so on the road.

Bowling Green took an early lead in Game 3, scoring four runs in the 2nd inning, and added two more in the 6th before allowing Peoria’s only run in the 7th. The Hot Rods got a great pitching performance from starter Resly Linares, who scattered four hits while striking out nine batters and walking none in six scoreless innings.

Hot Rods No. 9 hitter Carl Chester had two hits and two RBI.

Game 4 begins at 6:35 p.m. CST Sunday. The Hot Rods will send RHP Paul Campbell to the mound, while the Chiefs will counter with RHP Angel Rondon.

Bees, Rattlers extend PDCs

The Burlington Bees and the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers are the latest Midwest League teams to extend their player-development contracts with their big-league affiliates.

The Bees and the Los Angeles Angels extended their contract through the 2020 season. Their affiliation began in 2013.

The Timber Rattlers and the Milwaukee Brewers extended their contract through the 2022 season. This was their 10th season of affiliation.