The annual release of top prospect lists by various services has arrived, and this year, Baseball Prospectus has extended its list to include 101 promising players. Among those featured are four Chicago Cubs prospects who have caught the attention of scouts and fans alike. These young talents have demonstrated remarkable potential in their respective levels of play, with some poised for significant contributions at the major league level. This article delves into the achievements and future prospects of Owen Caissie, Cade Horton, Moises Ballesteros, and Matt Shaw, highlighting their paths within the Cubs organization.
Owen Caissie, currently ranked 77th, showcased impressive statistics during his time with Triple-A Iowa last season. At just 21 years old, he posted a batting average of .278 with an on-base percentage of .375 and slugged .473, along with 19 home runs over 127 games. Despite his talent, it appears unlikely that Caissie will find immediate playing time with the Cubs this year, likely continuing his development in Iowa.
Cade Horton, positioned at number 85, was the Cubs' first-round draft pick from the University of Oklahoma in 2022. Injuries limited him to only nine games across Double-A Tennessee and Triple-A Iowa. Now 23, Horton is expected to spend the upcoming season in Iowa, where he can gain more experience and recover fully from his injuries. His potential remains high, but consistent health is crucial for his progression.
Moises Ballesteros, another standout player, has proven his hitting prowess. Last year, he combined efforts between Tennessee and Iowa, batting .289/.354/.471 with 19 home runs in 124 games. Additionally, he excelled in the Arizona Fall League, hitting .317/.376/.557 with five home runs in 19 games. Despite concerns about his defensive skills as a catcher, Ballesteros' offensive abilities make him a valuable asset. He is also just 21, indicating plenty of room for growth.
Matt Shaw, ranked 26th, stands out as a leading candidate to fill the third baseman role for the Cubs this season. Last year, Shaw hit .284/.379/.488 with 21 home runs in 124 games split between Iowa and Tennessee. His performance extended to international competition, where he batted .412/.500/.706 with two home runs and 14 RBIs in the WBSC Premier12 tournament. Shaw's readiness for MLB is evident, making him a strong contender for a starting position.
Beyond these four players, the Cubs' farm system continues to nurture other talented prospects. The organization hopes that at least one of these players will graduate to the major leagues this year, adding fresh talent to the roster. As the season approaches, fans eagerly await the opportunity to see these young stars take the next step in their careers.