Cubs Minor League Wrap: Angel Cepeda 2 HRs as South Bend cruises to 8-4 win

South Bend Cubs secured an 8-4 victory over the Cedar Rapids Kernels in a Spring Training game, with Angel Cepeda contributing two home runs. Iowa Cubs were defeated by the Columbus Clippers 7-6, while Knoxville Smokies won 12-3 against the Chattanooga Lookouts. South Bend activated Ethan Hearn and Hayden Cantrelle from the Development List, while Dominick Reid was promoted from Low-A Myrtle Beach to High-A South Bend.

Outfielder Michael Gupton and right-hander Ethan Bell were added to South Bend from the ACL Cubs. South Bend also designated shortstop Juan Tomas for assignment to Myrtle Beach. In the game, Jostin Florentino started for South Bend and walked one, struck out four, and hit one batter. Nate Williams replaced Florentino and pitched 1.2 innings without allowing a run, earning the win.

Yoendris Gonzalez finished the game strong, allowing no runs on one hit over 2.1 innings and getting the save. Angel Cepeda, who is now 11 home runs with South Bend and 12 overall, led the offense with a two-run double in the fifth and a solo home run in the seventh. Josiah Hartshorn also contributed, hitting a solo home run in the seventh inning, bringing his South Bend home run total to 18 and his overall total to 23.

Kade Snell added a two-run triple and stole a base, while Jose Escobar hit a go-ahead two-run double.