Tennessee Smokies News: July 26 - August 1, 2024

Tennessee Smokies Shine Bright: A Week of Triumph in Minor League Baseball

The Tennessee Smokies have been making waves in the world of Minor League Baseball, and the past week has been nothing short of spectacular for the team. From thrilling victories to historic milestones, the Smokies have proven themselves to be a force to be reckoned with.

Historic Title Win

The most significant highlight of the week came when the Tennessee Smokies clinched their first outright Southern League title in 45 years. This monumental achievement was sealed with a 10-3 win over the Pensacola Blue Wahoos, marking a perfect postseason run for the team. The victory was particularly sweet, given that the Smokies fell just short of the championship in 2022, losing to the same Blue Wahoos in the Finals.

Cade Horton, the seventh overall pick in the 2022 Draft, was instrumental in this success. With a 1.33 ERA and 31 strikeouts in 27 innings across six starts, Horton has been a game-changer since his promotion to Double-A on August 1. His dominance on the mound has made him a finalist for MiLB Pitching Prospect of the Year, and his performance in the Finals was nothing short of stellar. Horton gave up just one run on one hit and three walks, striking out four in Game 2, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure.

Offensive Powerhouse

The Smokies' offense has been a powerhouse throughout the season, leading the circuit with 166 home runs during the regular season. This form continued into the playoffs, with BJ Murray Jr. delivering a three-run home run in the third inning of the championship game. Murray's performance was complemented by Kevin Alcántara, who scored twice on a team-high three-hit night, further solidifying the team's offensive prowess.

Recent Wins

In addition to their championship victory, the Smokies have been on a winning streak. They recently scored two runs in the top of the ninth inning to break a 3-3 tie and win their third straight game over the Mississippi Braves on Thursday, August 1. This win showcased the team's resilience and ability to perform under pressure.

Manager's Perspective

First-year manager Kevin Graber expressed his pride and excitement about the team's journey. "I joined the organization on November 1, so I'm totally new to the Chicago Cubs," Graber said. "This is my first go-around managing the Cubs organization. I got to know all of these guys during Spring Training. But to be on this journey with them, 142 games in at this point to win the championship for the Tennessee Smokies for the first time since 1978, I just feel so special that I was able to be inserted into this situation and make some history."

Fan Engagement

The Smokies' success has not only been celebrated by the team but also by their dedicated fans. The team's home, Smokies Stadium in Kodak, Tennessee, has been electric with excitement. Fans have been eagerly following the team's progress, and the recent wins have only added to the enthusiasm.

Conclusion

The Tennessee Smokies' performance over the past week has been nothing short of remarkable. From their historic title win to their consistent victories, the team has shown that they are a force to be reckoned with in Minor League Baseball. As the season continues, fans can look forward to more thrilling performances from this talented team. The future looks bright for the Smokies, and their recent achievements are a testament to their hard work and dedication.