Chicago Cubs: Notes from the first week of Cactus League play

Feb 27, 2017; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell (27) hits a solo home run during the second inning against the Chicago White Sox during a spring training game at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 27, 2017; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell (27) hits a solo home run during the second inning against the Chicago White Sox during a spring training game at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Prospects Shine

We have said it several times: the future is bright for the Chicago Cubs. Many of the team’s top prospects are showing their ability and proving why they deserve consideration.

Top prospect Eloy Jimenez has a .400/.455/.500 split so far, including a double, a run batted in and another scored. Ian Happ is batting .300 and has a stolen base, but has four strikeouts. Several others are showing well, hitting doubles and moving runners. The offense is in good hands.

The pitching has been a greater surprise. Between Gerardo Concepcion, Pierce Johnson, Ryan Williams, Felix Pena, and Alec Mills, they have five strikeouts in eight innings, and a cumulative ERA of 0.00. As a matter of fact, 27 of the 38 pitchers that have pitched this Spring have an ERA of 0.00.

Again, these are early showings in Spring Training. Many of these players are facing Minor League opponents. That said, solid performances are encouraging.