NEWSLETTER
After several interesting weeks of three minor league first half division title and playoff slot chases, it turns out that only Myrtle Beach qualifies for the postseason.
And the best part for Cubs’ fans is that Myrtle Beach’s playoff run was fueled largely by their pitching. A big three has emerged in the Pelicans’ starting rotation: Adbert Alzolay, Tom Hatch, and Justin Steele. These three are increasingly difficult to beat and seem to be getting better each week. In every case an argument could be made for a rapid promotion to Tennessee.
This is the season we were really expecting to see some breakout pitching peformances that could impact the Cubs near term future, both in terms of options at the trade deadline and future members of the team in Chicago. We have a lot of baseball to be played yet, but so far it looks like we are getting those breakout pitchers. That is very good news.
Triple A: Iowa Cubs
Nashville 7, Iowa 1
Cubs had a lot of chances, but could not cash them in.
Double A: Tennessee Smokies
Chattanooga 5, Tennessee 3
Tennessee led after eight innings.
High A: Myrtle Beach Pelicans
Down East 2, Myrtle Beach 0
The consecutive shutouts streak ended in the third.
Low A: South Bend Cubs
Lake County 6, South Bend 5
The Cubs have been eliminated from playoff contention.
Short Season A: Eugene Emeralds
Vancouver 7, Eugene 0
The Emeralds committed five errors in this one.
Other Notes
Cubs pitching prospect Thomas Hatch (High-A), last 5 starts: 0.89 ERA, 30.1 IP, 33 K, 7 BB, 24 H. Very dominant stretch. 3rd Rd pick '16.
— Brett Taylor (@BleacherNation) June 17, 2017
