Is the Cubs’ Jorge Soler the next Cuban sensation?

In 2012, the Chicago Cubs signed a Cuban outfielder by the name of Jorge Soler at the young age of 20-years-old. The deal was for 9 years/$30 million, and he was initially sent to the minor leagues so that he could develop and prepare for the majors.

Because of other highly touted prospects such as Javier Baez and Kris Bryant, Soler is often forgotten about and hardly ever the subject of conversation concerning the Cubs farm system. However, the 6’4, 215 pound outfielder seems to be the most polished of all the prospects, and has the potential to be a phenom in the league, and possibly the best young player on this current Cubs team. Obviously potential is all it is at the moment, but that may change very soon.

In his first two seasons in the minors, Soler produced mediocre numbers at the plate, posting batting averages of .299 and .281 in 2012 and 2013. Then, as the hype surrounding his superstar potential began to die down just a bit, he injured both of his hamstrings and was unable to showcase what he was truly capable of. At that point, the only thing he had going for him was his natural, raw talent.

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Things changed however in 2014, as Soler posted a slash line of .415/.494/.862 to go along with 6 home runs and 22 RBI in just 22 games at Double-A Tennessee. He was later promoted to Triple-A Iowa where his success continued, and he was ultimately called up to the majors. There he hit a respectable .292 with 5 home runs and 20 RBI. Those numbers are encouraging to say the least, and will likely improve in 2015.

Cuba has an outstanding track record of producing great baseball talent. Players such as Yoenis Cespedes, Yasiel Puig and Jose Abreu have already proven their worth and each has made a splash in their own way. Soler has the makings to be just as good, if not better than his fellow counterparts. He’ll have a chance to show that next season.

All things considered,Soler is very likely the next Cuban sensation in Major League Baseball. Fortunately for the Cubs, he belongs to them.

Next: Kyle Schwarber ranked third best catching prospect