Cubs Prospects In MLB Pipeline's Top 100 For 2024

The Chicago Cubs, once mired in a lengthy rebuild, have emerged as a promising team with a bright future. A significant factor in their resurgence is their impressive farm system, which has produced a crop of talented prospects who could shape the franchise's fortunes for years to come.

MLB Pipeline recently released its list of the Top 100 prospects for 2024, and the Cubs had four representatives: shortstop Pete Crow-Armstrong (No. 6), second baseman Owen Caissie (No. 13), outfielder Brennen Davis (No. 49), and pitcher Jordan Wicks (No. 97).

Crow-Armstrong, the latest in a long line of exceptional Cubs shortstops, has garnered widespread praise for his defensive prowess. His exceptional range, quick reflexes, and strong arm make him a potential Gold Glove caliber fielder. While his offensive production has been solid, with a high contact rate and good speed, it's his defensive abilities that set him apart.

Caissie, acquired via trade with the San Diego Padres, possesses exceptional power for a second baseman. His swing produces consistent hard contact, and he has the potential to become a middle-of-the-order threat. While his fielding abilities are still developing, his offensive potential is undeniable.

Davis, the Cubs' top overall prospect prior to the 2022 season, has endured some setbacks but remains a player with immense upside. He boasts a combination of power, speed, and athleticism that few players possess. His recovery from a torn ACL in May 2022 will be crucial in determining his future.

Wicks, the Cubs' first-round pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, has quickly ascended the prospect rankings. His fastball tops out at 96 mph, and he complements it with a sharp changeup and developing slider. His ability to command his pitches and induce ground balls makes him a promising starting pitcher.

While the Cubs' prospects undoubtedly possess immense potential, they also have areas for improvement. Crow-Armstrong, despite his stellar defense, needs to develop more power at the plate to become a complete player. Caissie, while a prodigious power hitter, may need to improve his fielding to solidify his status as a long-term second baseman. Davis, despite his tools, has struggled with consistency and injuries, and his ability to reach his potential remains uncertain.

Wicks, though promising, needs to refine his secondary pitches and improve his command to become a reliable starter. Additionally, the Cubs' system lacks high-impact starting pitching outside of Wicks, which could be a potential area of concern.

The Chicago Cubs' prospects in MLB Pipeline's Top 100 for 2024 offer a tantalizing glimpse into the future. With a combination of elite defensive skills, raw power, and promising pitching, these young players have the potential to be the backbone of a contending team.

However, it's important to recognize that prospects are not guaranteed to become stars. The Cubs' prospects will need to continue to develop and perform at the highest level to fulfill their potential. Nevertheless, the sheer number and quality of their prospects gives Cubs fans plenty of reason for optimism about the future of their franchise.