NEWSLETTER
The Tennessee Smokies wrapped up their season on Sunday. For the season the Cubs’ Double A affiliate finished with a record of 71-68 and in third place in the North Division. That’s not bad considering the Smokies were one of the youngest teams in the league.
Other than their age, the Smokies did not have any exceptional or standout statistics. They finished somewhere in the middle of the pack in most offense categories, somewhat worse than that in most pitching categories, and nearer the bottom of the league on defense. Given that the Smokies gave up more runs (614) than they scored (587), they actually did very well to finish the season above .500.
Even though they finished with a winning record, this does count as a down season for Tennessee. This is a team that is used to making the playoffs; a third place finish is not what the fans have come to expect. Fortunately, next season should be better. Between the players I expect to return to Double A to start 2013 (Szczur, Cerda, Silva) and the players I expect be promoted into that level (Loosen, Andreoli, Whitenack, Francescon), the Smokies should have the players they need to contend for a first half title. We’ll have a better grasp on things after spring training, of course, but I think Tennessee fans can spend a winter comfortably dreaming of many wins to come in 2013.
Scores From Yesterday
Tennessee – The Smokies played an all around good game as they closed out their season with an 8-1 win.
Peoria – The Chiefs scored four times in the fifth inning on their way to a 6-2 win.
Boise – The Hawks led 4-1 for a time, but it did not last. Boise lost their playoff opener at home by a final of 5-4.
Performances of the Day
Other Minor League Notes
