South Bend Cubs Extend Win Streak with 7-5 Victory Over Beloit SkyCarp

Owen Ayers homers for fourth straight game as South Bend wins sixth in a row

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:45am

A fractured, multi-perspective painting featuring sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in the team colors of the South Bend Cubs and Beloit SkyCarp, conveying the excitement and movement of a baseball game.A cubist interpretation of the South Bend Cubs' victory over the Beloit SkyCarp, highlighting the dynamic action and energy of the game.Beloit Today

The South Bend Cubs defeated the Beloit SkyCarp 7-5 on Thursday night, extending their winning streak to six games. Outfielder Owen Ayers hit a home run for the fourth consecutive game, becoming the second South Bend player to accomplish that feat this season.

Why it matters

The Cubs' hot streak has them climbing up the standings in the Midwest League, putting them in contention for a playoff spot. Ayers' power surge has been a key factor in the team's recent success, as the young outfielder continues to emerge as an offensive threat.

The details

In the series opener against Beloit, the Cubs jumped out to an early lead and held on for the two-run victory. Ayers' solo home run in the fourth inning gave South Bend a 4-2 advantage, and the bullpen was able to preserve the lead despite a late rally by the SkyCarp.

  • The game was played on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
  • Ayers has now homered in four consecutive games for the Cubs.

The players

Owen Ayers

A 23-year-old outfielder for the South Bend Cubs, Ayers has been on a power surge lately, hitting home runs in four straight games.

South Bend Cubs

The Class-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, the South Bend Cubs play in the Midwest League and are currently on a six-game winning streak.

Beloit SkyCarp

The Beloit SkyCarp are the Class-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers, playing in the Midwest League.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Owen has really been swinging the bat well lately. His power has been a big boost for us during this winning streak.”

— Jared Young, South Bend Cubs Manager

What’s next

The Cubs and SkyCarp will continue their series on Friday night, with the two teams scheduled to play three games in Beloit over the weekend.

The takeaway

The South Bend Cubs' recent hot streak has them firmly in the Midwest League playoff race, thanks in large part to the power surge of young outfielder Owen Ayers. The team will look to keep the momentum going as they take on the Beloit SkyCarp in a weekend series.