Cubs Minor League Highlights: Rojas Shines with Two Homers in Smokies Victory

The Iowa Cubs put on an offensive showcase, overpowering the Buffalo Bison (Blue Jays) with an explosive 18-11 victory, highlighted by an astonishing 11-run fifth inning. Right-hander Will Sanders took the mound and secured his fourth win of the season, allowing three runs on four hits across five innings. Although he faced early trouble with a first-inning home run from Jonatan Clase, Sanders struck out four and walked three, effectively managing the game to keep his team in front.

Making his Triple-A debut, Kenten Egbert struggled but gained valuable experience, giving up four runs—two earned—on five hits in 2.1 innings. His performance included two walks and one strikeout. The offensive fireworks began in the second inning when second baseman Owen Miller tied the game with a two-run homer, his fifth of the year. Miller’s impressive day included a 3-for-4 performance with a double, a walk, and three RBIs.

The fifth inning was a turning point, as right fielder Kevin Alcántara ignited the scoring spree with a grand slam, marking his 17th home run of the season. Alcántara finished the game 4-for-5 and crossed the plate three times. Not to be outdone, third baseman James Triantos also contributed significantly, hitting a two-run homer—his sixth of the year—while going 3-for-4 with a double, a sacrifice fly, and a total of three RBIs.

Center fielder Brett Bateman and first baseman BJ Murray each had strong outings as well, with Bateman going 3-for-5 with a double and two RBIs, and Murray also going 3-for-4, adding a double and scoring two runs. The Iowa Cubs amassed an impressive 19 hits during the game, showcasing their offensive depth.

In other action, the Knoxville Smokies defeated the Birmingham Barons (White Sox) 10-4, with pitcher Nick Dean leading the charge. Dean allowed just one run on three hits over five innings, striking out five and walking one. The highlight of the game came from third baseman Jefferson Rojas, who homered twice, bringing his season total to 13. Rojas went 3-for-5 with a walk, contributing significantly to the Smokies’ victory.

Center fielder Andy Garriola also made his mark, hitting a two-run homer in the third inning, his 15th of the season, while right fielder Alex Ramírez recorded two doubles in a 3-for-5 performance. DH Owen Ayers and left fielder Carter Trice each added to the offensive effort with multiple hits and runs scored.

Meanwhile, the South Bend Cubs triumphed over the Quad Cities River Bandits (Royals) 8-1, in a game cut short by rain after eight innings. Jostin Florentino delivered a stellar performance, tossing four scoreless innings with only one hit allowed, striking out seven batters. Brayden Spears earned the win with 3.2 innings of relief, giving up just one run.

First baseman Josiah Hartshorn broke out of a slump with a 3-for-5 performance, including a two-run homer in the eighth inning, bringing his total to 14 for the season. Alongside him, shortstop Ty Southisene contributed with a solid 2-for-4 day, scoring twice and driving in one.

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans faced a tough challenge against the Salem RidgeYaks (Red Sox), falling 5-4. Starter Hayden Frank struggled, allowing five runs over three innings, while relievers Jordan Henriquez and Sam Mettert kept the game close. Left fielder Geri Lubo stood out, going 3-for-4 with two steals and two runs scored.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.