U.S. tops the World 3-2 in Futures game; Baez hits HR

In what has become a showcase of young talent since its inception in 1999, and in some cases an audition for possible trades, the U.S. topped the World 3-2 thanks to a  two-run home run by Joey Gallo (Rangers) in the 2014 Futures Game.

The Cubs’ top prospect Javier Baez provided all the offense for the World team, hitting a two-run home run in the sixth off of Lucas Gioloto (Nationals) to give the, a 2-1 lead. Gioloto would be the only U.S. pitcher to surrender a run.

Pitching was solid for both sides, as each team used ten arms in the contest. Runners rarely found third base, as only once did that happen, when the U.S.’ Jesse Winker (Reds) doubled, then moved over to third on a single by Hunter Renfroe (Padres). Kevin Plawecki (Mets) then grounded out to score Winker, scoring the first run of the game in the third.

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Alex Meyer (Twins) needed only four pitches in the fifth to record a 1-2-3 inning. Jose Berrios, a fellow Twins farmhand was one of the World pitchers to record hitless innings.

Julio Urias Dodgers) became the youngest member to play in the Futures game (17 years old), throwing a perfect fifth with a strikeout.

Jake Thompson (Tigers) picked up the win, striking out both batters he faced.

Mets prospect Noah Snydergaard picked up the save.

Kris Bryant, the only other Cubs farmhand, went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts leaving four on base.