Featured Photo of Alfonsin Rosario by Rich Biesterfeld

The Cubs were road warriors last week with only one home game and four games played at the opposition’s home field. The team went 2-3 on the week and one of the losses was a tough one where they had a one run lead heading into the bottom of the 9th but gave up two runs to get the loss. Even through some tough losses, the team continues to fight hard and improve.

I attended the lone home game and it was good to be able to make some personal observations of the team and players again. One of the things I noticed is that Adán Sanchez has been working hard on his swing and you could see there have been improvements and he was making better contact. Congratulations go out to Wilson Cunningham who recorded his first win as a pro on Saturday. The other big story of the week was several upper level players joined the team on rehab assignments – Kevin Alcantara, Nick Burdi and Reggie Preciado.

Some Highlights from the Week:

  • Carter Trice was 5-12 with 3 doubles and a HR, while also knocking in 6 RBI’s. He has only played in the DH role so far, but his bat will most definitely play as he has shown the ability to hit for some power.
Carter Trice
  • Alfonsin Rosario went 4-10 with a pair of BB and 4 stolen bases. He could have been credited with another stolen base when he advanced on a short passed ball in Friday night’s game. His speed and base running acumen can be a real asset to his team and a disruptor to the opposition.
  • Juan Bello had not yet pitched in the ACL this season, but started the game on Saturday, going 4 IP allowing 2 ER and striking out 4. Juan has a live arm and it’s good to see him back healthy and on the field.
Juan Bello
  • Drew Bowser went 4-9 with a double and 3 walks. He has been playing both second and third base and has looked solid in both spots.

Comings & Goings:

Additions to the roster: Sam Armstrong was activated. Kevin Alcantara and Reginald Preciado were sent on rehab assignments by South Bend and Myrtle Beach respectively. Nick Burdi was sent on a rehab assignment from the Iowa Cubs.

Departures from the roster: Eligio Paredes, Sam Armstrong and Jonathon Long were promoted to Myrtle Beach. Kevin Alcantara and Nick Burdi completed their rehab assignments and returned to their respective clubs. Miguel Fabrizio was released.

A Look Ahead:

Next week will be the final full week of games in the ACL. The Cubs will go on the road to face off against the Diamondbacks Red, Rangers and Giants Black squads. They will host the Reds and Rockies in home contests.