Down on the Farm: Javier Baez struggles in return, Smokies win big

The other game played tonight was between the Iowa Cubs and the Round Rock Express.

Now the Cubs were able to keep up with the Express  when it came to hits, but were unable to put any runs on the scoreboard the entire game. Round Rock put the first run on the board during the top of the fifth inning then added another five during the top of the fifth. Starting pitcher Carlos Pimentel was pulled from the game after six innings as he was charged with three earned runs off four hits, one home run and striking out five batters.

The home run was hit by Adam Rosales during the top of the fifth inning. Chris Gimenez would be the final batter he would face of the evening, but allowed the Express to extend their lead to 2-0 off a single hit by Gimenez. Zac Rosscup would replace him but that wouldn’t stop Round Rock from putting together a string of hits and putting up more runs.

He walked in back-to-back runs with the bases loaded. Brett Nicholas would later make him pay with a two run single to center field, making it 6-0.

Javier Baez also made his return from the seven day disabled list with a sore ankle,but was non-existent as he went 0-for-3 at the plate.

Winning pitcher for tonight’s game is Nick Tepesch (3-1, 2.46 ERA), losing pitcher is Carlos Pimentel (1-3, 6.14 ERA).

Final Score: Express 6, Cubs 0.

Iowa Cubs fall to 8-9.