Chicago Cubs: Breaking down the team’s top prospects entering the season

Apr 4, 2017; St. Louis, MO, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Albert Almora Jr. (5) celebrates with catcher Willson Contreras (40) after the Cubs defeated the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium. The Cubs won 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 4, 2017; St. Louis, MO, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Albert Almora Jr. (5) celebrates with catcher Willson Contreras (40) after the Cubs defeated the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium. The Cubs won 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
7 of 11
Mar 27, 2016; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Mark Zagunis triples during the fourth inning against the Seattle Mariners at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 27, 2016; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Mark Zagunis triples during the fourth inning against the Seattle Mariners at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

On-base prowess a skill for Zagunis

Mark Zagunis was drafted by the Cubs in the third round of the 2014 draft. He got to work right away in 2014 as he split time between three different levels, and played a total of 57 games. In those games, Zagunis hit .288 with two home runs and 32 RBI. Zagunis also posted a .420 OBP in 2014.

Chicago Cubs
Chicago Cubs

Chicago Cubs

After getting promoted to Single-A Advanced in 2015, Zagunis continued his offensive production. In 115 games, Zagunis hit eight home runs to go along with his 54 RBI. Zagunis also slashed .271/.406/.412.

At age 23, Zagunis split time between Double-A and Triple-A. He played a total of 101 games in 2016, and posted a .288 batting average and .384 OBP. He also hit 10 home runs and drove in 49 runs.

There is no doubt that Zagunis can hit and get on base at a high level. In 273 minor league games, Zagunis has recorded a .401 OBP. That is an impressive mark and is no doubt drawing interest from the Cubs front office.

Zagunis is yet another guy who can play all over the field. He has played catcher, left field and right field the most since being drafted. It looks as if the Cubs are wanting him to play a corner outfield position at the higher levels.

Cubs fans could see Zagunis at the major league level in 2017, but do not expect him to take anyone’s job- at least not yet.

Schedule