Wrigleyville Prospect Weekly: Trade Deadline Coming Up, Catchers Are Hot and a Cubs Prospect Makes it to The Show
By Reed Kubiak ·
Potential Deadline Moves
The Cubs should be massive buyers for the trade deadline this Monday but for good reason. That means some of the prospects I frequently talk about might not be Cubs by next week. I am going to highlight some names the Cubs may be willing to dish out and what the Cubs will be missing out on.
Pedro Ramirez (MLB, 2B, Rank: 3) has frequently been mentioned as a potential trade candidate. Two months ago, I might not have objected, but his success at the major league level has been impressive. He is a valuable depth piece and could remain so for a long time. Ultimately, the decision will hinge on whether the Cubs prefer Matt Shaw or Pedro Ramirez.
Owen Ayers (AAA, C, Rank: 16) should be retained unless the Cubs include him in a trade offer for Skubal. He has been one of the standout hitters in the Cubs organization this year and has advanced to Triple-A. Ayers shows significant potential to become a successful MLB catcher, designated hitter, or first baseman in the next few years. His hitting ability is too valuable to trade, and he is nearing MLB readiness.
Kane Kepley (A+, OF, Rank: 8) is a prospect I value highly, and although I aim to remain objective, he is someone I wouldn't mind seeing traded. Kepley possesses a strong batting ability and an exceptional approach to the game. Currently in High A, he still requires significant development and time before advancing. Additionally, the Cubs have several outfield prospects ahead of him. Trading him could be a strategic move for the Cubs, considering their organizational depth and the need for development time.
Organizational Catchers Have Hot Week
Owen Ayers (AAA, C, Rank: 16) had another impressive week, and at this point, should we even be surprised? He posted a weekly slash line of .444/.474/.722. This includes hitting his first Triple-A home run. His slugging remained high with three extra-base hits among his eight total hits. Although he recorded six strikeouts, his overall production more than compensates for it. Since his promotion to Triple-A, Ayers has maintained an outstanding .364 average and a strong .962 OPS. These numbers highlight Ayers's potential, as he continues to make a name for himself this season.
Justin Stransky (A+, C) hasn't had as impressive a season as Ayers, but he certainly had a noteworthy week. The South Bend catcher posted an outstanding slash line of .467/.579/.733. Stransky collected 7 hits and 4 walks, contributing to his impressive on-base percentage. While his season OPS stands at .680, this performance might be a confidence booster, offering him a chance to turn his season around.
Moves
James Triantos (MLB, 2B, Rank: 15) was promoted to the major leagues on Friday. Triantos was excelling in Triple-A with a slash line of .306/.344/.440. His game is heavily focused on avoiding strikeouts but also he doesn't walk often. While he clearly makes consistent contact, his power numbers remain modest.
Overall, Triantos is a strong player, but this move seems primarily intended to provide Kevin Alcantara with more at-bats in Triple-A. The Cubs appear eager for Alcantara to develop further, as his previous MLB appearances have yet to yield consistent results. This could position Alcantara as a potential starter next season, possibly filling an outfield spot with Suzuki and Happ's contracts expiring after this year.
Quick Hits
Ethan Conrad (A, OF, Rank: 1) is struggling, managing only 3 hits and recording 6 strikeouts this week. However, he did draw 5 walks, indicating that he is seeing the ball well.
Fernando Cruz (A, SS) saw action in Single-A this week, but his performance was underwhelming with just two hits. Although one of those was a home run, he needs to improve his plate discipline and make more consistent contact.
Brett Bateman (AAA, OF, Rank: 28) continues his impressive season with eight hits and eight runs scored this week. His game focuses on making contact, so maintaining consistency with his hitting is crucial.