Knoxville Smokies open season with win over Birmingham

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - The Knoxville Smokies opened their second season at Covenant Health Park with a 9-6 win over the Birmingham Barons on Friday night.

It’s the third straight season that Knoxville has won its home opener.

Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki began his rehab assignment in Knoxville, starting in right field and finishing 1-2 with an RBI.

Jefferson Rojas, the No. 5 prospect in the Chicago organization, finished 2-4 with 3 RBI and a home run.

Knoxville continues its series with Birmingham on Saturday at 7 p.m.