Kris Bryant launches his first homer, leads I-Cubs to win

Bryant goes yard as I-Cubs roll over Memphis

Prized prospect Kris Bryant went yard and drove in three runs, pacing the Iowa Cubs’ offense in a 13-0 rout of the Memphis Redbirds on Saturday night.

Bryant opened the scoring in the top of the first with a sacrifice fly against Memphis right-hander Zach Petrick, but it wasn’t until the later innings that the Cubs’ bats picked it up, scoring four runs in the fifth, two in the sixth and four in the ninth.

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After Iowa (1-2) pushed its lead to 3-0 in the top of the fifth, Ruby Silva added another RBI single – his second on the night – to make it 4-0. Rafael Lopez lined a double to right, scoring two more runs – capping the Cubs’ scoring in the frame.

A Chris Valaika two-run blast in the sixth made it 8-0 Iowa, but things were just getting started for the Iowa offense. Former Redbirds outfielder Adron Chambers doubled to score two more runs, extending the lead to 11-0 before Bryant launched a bomb, a two-run blast to make it 13-0.

Memphis (2-1) managed just four hits on the night – thanks to strong pitching. Lefty Eric Jokisch got the start for the Cubs, scattering three hits and three walks over 4 2/3 innings of work – but it was Blake Cooper (1-0) picked up the win, striking out four in 2 1/3 frames.

Five Cubs players tallied more than two RBI: Valaika, Lake, Silva and Lopez – as well as Bryant, who drove in three. Bryant, Valaika, Silva and Baxter all recorded multiple base hits during the contest, as well.

What Stood Out:

Bryant homering was the story of the win – and his ability to lead an offense was prevalent. That being said, there was plenty to be excited about outside of the slugging infielder – namely Addison Russell, who managed two more runs out of the leadoff spot and paced the team from the top of the order.

Also, keep an eye on Mike Baxter, who is batting .455 this season with the I-Cubs after going 2-for-5 on Saturday.

What’s Up Next:

Iowa (1-2) and Memphis (2-1) conclude their four-game set at AutoZone Park Sunday afternoon.