Cubs' System Looking Strong Heading Into 2017

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Baseball is here and the minor leagues are kicking off their seasons. It was a great spring training and we now know where the players in the Cubs’ organization will be assigned. Here is a look at a few of the Cubs’ top prospects.

Eloy Jimenez (#1, OF) will start the year in Advanced-A Myrtle Beach. Jimenez hit .321/.355/.609 through 28 at-bats in spring training, but came down with a sore throwing-side shoulder. Due to the shoulder, Jimenez is expected to spend the first two weeks or so on the DL. Jimenez has the skills to play higher, but the Cubs are in no rush and will prefer to take their time with him.
Ian Happ (#2, 2B/OF) was a highlight of the Cubs’ spring training slashing .383/.441/.750 over 60 at-bats. He’ll start the year in Triple-A Iowa. Like many Cubs’ players hanging around in Triple-A, it’s hard to see where there will be room to get the call up to the majors. But should there be a need, Happ is as versatile as they come and could be an important asset later in the year for the big league club. Other top prospects starting in Triple-A include Jeimer Candelario (#4, 3B), Mark Zagunis (#8, OF), and Victor Caratini (#17, C/1B).

Dylan Cease (#3, RHP) will go for his first full season starting in Single-A South Bend. The Cubs tend to have more to offer with the bats, and that makes Cease’s development all the more important. A full, healthy season from the Cubs’ top pitching prospect would be a great win for the organization.

Albert Almora Jr. (#5, OF) is already making great plays in the majors and won’t be considered a prospect much longer if he still is. His biggest problem is facing playing time issues with a crowded outfield, but Joe Maddon sure seems to like him for his defense.

Other news:

Aramis Ademan (#15, SS) is continuing to increase his stock, but is still just 18 years-old and is a ways away from the majors.
Donnie Dewees (who was ranked at #11) was traded to the Kansas City Royals at the beginning of February. In exchange, the Cubs received pitcher Alec Mills, who will start the year in Triple-A.
Eight Cubs made our top 209 prospects list for this year.

*Featured image of Ian Happ courtesy of MiLB.com

Dan Hogan

My name is Dan Hogan and I’m the freak holding down the Cubs talk around here. I’ve been playing fantasy sports for over ten years, but more recently dove into dynasty baseball. I have a healthy interest in data and statistics, and baseball is certainly a great sport for all that jazz.

Twitter: @BelowTheBenthic