Iowa Cubs

Frequently Asked Questions

Who do the Iowa Cubs farm team for?

The Iowa Cubs are the Triple-A minor league affiliate, or farm team, for the Chicago Cubs, one of Major League Baseball's most storied franchises. As the highest-level minor league team in the Cubs' organization, the Iowa Cubs play a crucial role in developing young talent and providing a proving ground for future Chicago Cubs stars. Players often move between Iowa and Chicago during the season, making the Iowa Cubs an essential part of the Cubs' overall player development system. Based in Des Moines, Iowa, the team competes in the International League, facing off against other top minor league teams. For fans in Iowa and across the Midwest, following the Iowa Cubs offers a unique opportunity to watch rising stars and future MLB standouts up close, before they become household names at Wrigley Field.

When did the Iowa oaks become the Iowa Cubs?

The Iowa Oaks became the Iowa Cubs in 1982. The team, originally known as the Iowa Oaks, began play in Des Moines in 1969 as a Triple-A affiliate. In 1981, the Chicago Cubs became the major league affiliate, and the following year, the team officially changed its name to the Iowa Cubs to reflect this new partnership. This rebranding signified a strong connection to the Chicago Cubs and established a clear identity for the Des Moines-based club within the minor league system. The name change also helped create a direct link for fans, allowing them to follow the progress of future Chicago Cubs stars as they developed in Iowa. Since becoming the Iowa Cubs, the team has remained a beloved fixture in the community, serving as a key stepping stone for players on their journey to Major League Baseball.

What is the AAA team for the Cubs?

The Iowa Cubs serve as the Triple-A (AAA) team for the Chicago Cubs. As the highest-level minor league affiliate, the Iowa Cubs are a critical part of the Chicago Cubs' player development pipeline. Based in Des Moines, Iowa, and competing in the International League, the AAA Iowa Cubs provide a platform for top prospects and veteran players rehabbing from injury to hone their skills before joining or returning to the major league roster. The close relationship between the Iowa Cubs and the Chicago Cubs means that many players who suit up in Des Moines eventually make their way to Wrigley Field, often becoming key contributors at the major league level. Fans of the Chicago Cubs often keep a close eye on the Iowa Cubs roster to track the progress of up-and-coming talent and future stars.

Who is pitching for the Iowa Cubs?

Pitching for the Iowa Cubs changes frequently, as the roster is constantly updated with prospects, rehabbing major leaguers, and minor league veterans. As of the current 2024 season, notable pitchers who have taken the mound for the Iowa Cubs include prospects like Ben Brown, Hayden Wesneski, and Daniel Palencia. These pitchers are part of the Chicago Cubs' farm system and are closely watched for their potential to make an impact at the major league level. The Iowa Cubs' pitching staff is managed by the coaching staff, which rotates starting and relief pitchers based on performance, player development needs, and organizational priorities. For the most up-to-date information on who is pitching for the Iowa Cubs in a specific game, fans are encouraged to check the team's official website or game-day lineups.

What were the previous names of the Iowa Cubs?

The Iowa Cubs were previously known as the Iowa Oaks before adopting their current name. The Iowa Oaks began play in 1969 as a Triple-A minor league team in Des Moines. Over the years, the franchise had several major league affiliations, including the Oakland Athletics, Chicago White Sox, and Houston Astros. It was not until 1981, when the team became affiliated with the Chicago Cubs, that the groundwork was laid for the name change. In 1982, the team officially rebranded as the Iowa Cubs, forging a lasting identity closely tied to their major league parent club. The name change helped strengthen fan engagement and solidified the team's reputation as a key developmental stop for future Chicago Cubs players.