Chicago Cubs Minors: Checking in with talent down on the farm

Mar 10, 2017; Peoria, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Ian Happ (86) hits a single against the Seattle Mariners during the second inning at Peoria Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 10, 2017; Peoria, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Ian Happ (86) hits a single against the Seattle Mariners during the second inning at Peoria Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
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Mar 26, 2017; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs third baseman Jeimer Candelario (7) hits an RBI single against the San Diego Padres during the third inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 26, 2017; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs third baseman Jeimer Candelario (7) hits an RBI single against the San Diego Padres during the third inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Jeimer Candelario, 3B

Jeimer Candelario is enjoying a hot start to the 2017 season at Triple-A Iowa. The 23-year-old is slashing .309/.413/.647.

Through 19 games, Candelario has hit three home runs to go along with his 18 RBI. His 26.3 percent strikeout rate so far this season may be concerning, but considering Candelario averaged a 16.3 percent strikeout rate from 2011-2016, one has reason to believe that inflated number will return to normal as the season progresses.

Of Candelario’s 21 hits, ten of them have been doubles, and two of them have been triples.

Even though the youngster is off to a fast start at Triple-A, the future for him in a Cubs uniform does not look bright. Kris Bryant will continue to man the third base bag at the major league level for the foreseeable future.

Right now, Candelario’s .413 OBP and .647 slugging percentage are impressive statistics, but they will do little to help him earn a spot on the Cubs big league roster.

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