Cubs Minor League Wrap: Smokies get one-hit and win by 7
Everyone won but the rookie league team tonight.
Smokies catcher Owen Ayers (6) rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run during a minor league baseball game between the Knoxville Smokies and Birmingham Barons at Covenant Health Park in Knoxville, Tennessee. , on May 7, 2026. | Angelina Alcantar/ News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Right-hander Frankie Scalzo Jr.
was promoted to Triple-A Iowa from Double-A Knoxville. I-Cubs catcher Christian Bethancourt went on the bereavement list. Iowa Cubs The Iowa Cubs hung on to beat the Columbus Clippers (Guardians), 13-12 .
Starter Doug Nikhazy didn’t fool anyone early, as he gave up two runs in the first on two solo home runs and four more in the second on a grand slam. But he settled down and pitched two more scoreless innings. His final line was six runs on six hits over four innings.
Nikhazy walked three and struck out three. Ryan Jensen threw the fifth inning and got the win. He allowed a two-out walk, but no other baserunners.
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