Cubs Minors Wrap 8/11

A few big names started today, including my old buddy Jeff Samardzija, and future ace Chris Archer.

Iowa Cubs (AAA)- Lost to Portland 13-3

When I saw the score, I figured Jeff Samardzija got lit up like he was back in the big league bullpen. I have to give Samardzija credit though, he was not at fault for this lopsided loss. He pitched seven innings, allowing four earned runs on eight hits and three walks. He had five strikeouts, and while it was far from a great start, Samardzija is clearly making some progress this year.

Sam Fuld will probably make his annual September trip to Wrigley, and he had a nice night, going 2-4 with two triples.

Darwin Barney went 2-4 with a RBI.

Tennessee Smokies (AA)- Beat Huntsville 7-1

All there is to say about Chris Archer at this point is wow. I think we have a new top pitching prospect, Archer has made the transition to AA look really easy. Tonight he got eight strikeouts over his seven innings of work. He gave up just one run on one hit and two walks, if his command remains as steady as it has been, Archer will be in the big leagues sooner than most thought.

Brett Jackson played left field and went 1-3 with a triple and two runs scored.

Robinson Chirinos (C) hasn’t gotten a lot of mention here yet, but that is going to change. He’s probably the best catcher currently in the system, and I would say he’s the favorite to backup Soto next season. He went 1-3 with a RBI last night, and has a .997 OPS this season.

Daytona Cubs (High-A)- Lost to Tampa 8-3

Dae-Eun Rhee’s tough season continued last night, he lasted just three innings after allowing five runs on six hits and three walks. This is Rhee’s first full season back from Tommy John, so he’s obviously still getting his arm back, but for a guy who had such highly thought of stuff, you would expect better results.

Apparently David Patton is still floating around, he pitched two scoreless innings.

D.J. LeMahieu played shortstop and went 2-5 with a double.

Junior Lake played third base, and went 2-4.

Michael Brenly went 1-4, and has a .747 OPS this season.

Boise Hawks (Rookie) and AZL Cubs both had the day off

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