Iowa Cubs Fall to Gwinnett as James Triantos Gets the Call to Chicago
The Iowa Cubs dropped a rain-shortened game to the Gwinnett Stripers 4-2 on Friday, but the big news of the day was a major promotion that could reshape the team's lineup. Second baseman and outfielder James Triantos has been called up to the Chicago Cubs for his major league debut, while outfielder Kevin Alcántara has been sent down to Iowa.
Triantos, a top prospect in the Cubs system, will now get his shot in the big leagues. The move signals the organization's confidence in his development and provides a fresh spark for a Chicago team fighting for playoff positioning. Alcántara, who struggled at the plate in his recent stint, will look to regain his form in Des Moines.
Rain Shortens Game, Iowa's Offense Stalls
Friday's contest at Principal Park was called after five innings due to persistent rain, with the Stripers holding a 4-2 lead. Starter Jaxon Wiggins took the loss, allowing three runs on five hits over 2.2 innings. The right-hander struggled with command, walking three batters while striking out two.
Right fielder Brett Bateman was the bright spot for Iowa, going 2 for 3 with a double and scoring both of the team's runs. But the rest of the lineup could not muster enough offense to overcome Gwinnett's early lead.
Drew Pomeranz Assigned to Iowa After Clearing Waivers
In other roster news, veteran left-hander Drew Pomeranz has cleared waivers and been assigned to Triple-A Iowa. Pomeranz, who signed a minor league deal earlier this season, will now decide whether to report to Des Moines or elect free agency. The 36-year-old has not pitched in the majors this year due to injury.
If Pomeranz reports, he could provide experienced depth for the Iowa bullpen as the team pushes through the final stretch of the season.
Knoxville Smokies Fall in Walk-Off Thriller
Down in Double-A, the Knoxville Smokies lost a heartbreaker to the Rocket City Trash Pandas 5-4 in the bottom of the ninth. Starter Brody McCullough was dominant, not allowing a hit over 4.2 innings, but the bullpen could not hold the lead. Tyler Santana gave up three hits and the walk-off run in just one-third of an inning.
Catcher Ethan Hearn hit a solo home run in the fourth, and center fielder Andy Garriola tied the game with a three-run blast in the seventh. Garriola now has 18 home runs on the season.
South Bend Cubs Win Behind Josiah Hartshorn's Power
The South Bend Cubs defeated the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers 4-2, powered by first baseman Josiah Hartshorn's massive two-run home run in the seventh inning. It was Hartshorn's 16th homer of the year and his 11th with South Bend. He went 2 for 3 with a double, a walk, and scored three times.
Starter Ethan Flanagan earned the win with five strong innings, allowing just one run on three hits. Ethan Bell closed the game with a save, getting a fly out to end the game after a runner was thrown out trying to steal second.
Center fielder Kane Kepley stole his 46th base of the season, continuing his impressive year on the basepaths.
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Rained Out, Doubleheader Scheduled
The Myrtle Beach Pelicans were rained out again in Hickory and will play a doubleheader on Sunday. The team also has a doubleheader scheduled for Friday.
ACL Cubs Finish Season with Win
The Arizona Complex League Cubs ended their season with a 7-1 win over the Guardians. The Mesa Cubs finished at 20-39, which was not last place in their division. They finished above the Athletics and had a better overall record than the White Sox.
What This Means for Iowa Cubs Fans
For Iowa Cubs fans, the promotion of James Triantos is a reason to watch closely. While the team lost a close game Friday, the infusion of talent from the big league level could help the I-Cubs stay competitive. Kevin Alcántara's return to Iowa also gives fans a chance to see a highly touted prospect work on his game.
The Iowa Cubs continue their series against Gwinnett on Saturday. First pitch is scheduled for 6:08 p.m. at Principal Park.