Wrigleyville Prospect Weekly
By Reed Kubiak ·
Kevin Alcántara's Emergence
Kevin Alcántara (MLB, CF, Rank: 3) is making a strong case to become an integral part of the Cubs' lineup. With his power-speed blend and sharp defensive skills, Alcántara's performance at Triple-A Iowa has been promising. His recent stretch shows improved swing decisions, logging fewer strikeouts and getting on base more consistently. Since returning to Iowa, Alcantara has had 4 multi-hit games, going 11-for-37 over the nine game span. Add to this his ability to cover ground in the outfield, and you're looking at a player who has the cahance to be irreplaceable.
The Cubs' outfield is packed, but Alcántara’s ability to impact both sides of the ball should earn him everyday at-bats. He stands 6-foot-6 with plus athleticism that includes three plus tools. The Cubs gave him a two week stint with the Major League club where he primarily served as a pinch hitter and defensive replacement. It is hard to gather any momentum and consistency in that role so the club moved him back to Triple-A to get regular at-bats.
His role moving forward will greatly rest on seizing opportunity in the short-term. Pedro Ramírez has made an impact as a recent call-up and role-player. Alcantara may not be far behind, especially if the hot and cold Cubs situation warrants it due to injuries or trades.
Jaxon Wiggins Update
Jaxon Wiggins (AAA, RHP, Rank: 1) made his first rehab start beyond rookie ball for the Cubs' High-A affiliate, the South Bend Cubs. He pitched 2.2 innings, allowing 1 earned run with 2 walks and 3 strikeouts.
While his statistics don't stand out, the comfort level during his outing is paramount. Wiggins described feeling "really comfortable with the fastball, slider, changeup." It's encouraging to hear that he's feeling good, which is crucial for his full recovery. Ideally, this means he will avoid significant setbacks in his rehab process.
Another significant positive was his velocity, which remained consistent throughout the outing. He reached 97 MPH in his final inning, which aligns with his velocity when healthy. This is excellent news and a major positive development.
The primary concern is his control. He threw only 55% strikes and issued 2 walks. Last year, his strike rate was about 61%. This suggests some command issues, but it's only his first start in some time. Overall, this start was a success. He just needs to work on his command, maintain his velocity, and stay comfortable without pushing himself too quickly to avoid setbacks.
Watch List: Outfielders, Arms on the Rise and Hot Single A Bats
Behind Alcántara, the pipeline remains bustling. At Triple-A Iowa, Jonathon Long (AAA, 1B, Rank: 13) added 7 hits to his tally, including two home runs, driving in five runs over the week. His power potential continues to shine through amidst a competitive Iowa roster.
Down at Double-A, Erian Rodriguez (AA, RHP, Rank: 38) has been notable with a heavy fastball that keeps ground balls coming. Across two outings, he pitched 5.2 innings without allowing an earned run, highlighting his ability to control the damage despite elevated walks.
Meanwhile, in High-A South Bend, Kane Kepley (A+, OF, Rank: 6) is living up to his scouting profile with a .429 average and a .556 OBP this past week. His eye at the plate and baserunning smarts are causing a stir not just locally but in the broader prospect landscape.
Michael Carico (A, 1B) has been on a tear in Myrtle Beach. In June, he has already hit four home runs and three doubles, showcasing his impressive slugging ability. Two of those home runs, along with seven RBIs, came this week. Given his recent hot streak, a call-up could be imminent for Carico.
Logan Poteet (A, C) has also been a standout for Myrtle Beach. He has been the hottest hitter in the Cubs' organization this week, currently on a four-game home run streak heading into his game on the 24th. Despite recording seven strikeouts, he maintains a .500 OBP. With a season slash line of .293/.397/.593, a promotion to High A may be on the horizon.
Quick Hits
BJ Murray Jr. (AAA, 3B, Rank: 40) posted an impressive .423 average this week, highlighting his on-base prowess with a .500 OBP and two home runs. This standout performance is encouraging for the 26-year-old, who has yet to debut at the Major League level.
Jostin Florentino (A+, SP, Rank: 27) struck out six over four innings, highlighting the effectiveness of his slider, though he did allow a home run. With two walks, this performance showcases his best single-game K/BB ratio of the season.
Fernando Cruz (R, SS, Rank: 43) demonstrated his power with two home runs in just four games, suggesting potential beyond his current role. Although his strikeout rate remains slightly higher than desired, he has shown significant improvement this season.
Will Sanders (AAA, RHP, Rank: 21) delivered five solid innings, allowing only one earned run while striking out six, underscoring his stability as a starter.
Josiah Hartshorn (A+, OF, Rank: 5) has certainly faced challenges this week, managing only 2 hits while striking out 7 times. Despite these struggles, he has maintained a respectable walk rate, drawing 3 walks over the week.
The Cubs prospect system continues to reveal surprises and developments, with major league implications becoming increasingly clear as Alcántara solidifies his spot. The continuity from Iowa through to Wrigley indicates the organizational planning and the need for further dialogue surrounding the evolving Cubs outfield roster.