After only 2 seasons, the Cubs have decided to cut bait on the Kane County Cougars and are moving their Single A affiliate to South Bend starting next season.  The marriage between the Cubs and the Cougars seemed beneficial, but Cub leadership was looking for upgraded facilities.

This might not be a bad move for the Cubs.  Between their dominance in the local area and their Triple A team in Iowa, the Cubs already rule from Chicago to the west.  From a fan base perspective, Kane County offered the Cubs little beyond a shorter drive.  South Bend will give them an opportunity to push their brand further to the east.

Meanwhile, the White Sox continue to insist that their entire minor league system reside in the south-eastern United States, cutting down on travel costs but contributing nothing to the big league club’s fan base.