Chicago Cubs: Impressively consistent
The year and a half for Short have been as consistent as it gets when it comes to moving up the chain toward the Show. In 2018, Short played the entirety of his season at Double-A Tennessee. There he did struggle with his average again, finishing by batting .227, however still managed a .355 wOBA and 123 wRC+.
Of everything that changed in Short’s game, his power impressed the most. He smashed 17 home runs with 59 RBI, stole eight bases, and a posted a 15.6% walk rate. The strikeouts did increase, but it hardly mattered with how his season played out overall.
This season, Short has only six games under his belt at Triple-A Iowa however he has been unbelievable. Through his first 22 plate appearances, Short is slashing .368/.455/.474 with an RBI, a .415 wOBA and 143 wRC+. He has also decreased his strikeout rate by 3.3% from last season. Whether or not these numbers are sustainable, the best possible start for Short at the highest level of Minor League Baseball is a great sign for things to come.
Chicago has many shortstop prospects in their system currently. With the future of one middle infield spot murky, there could be opportunities for Short in the Show sooner rather than later. If that is what the crystal ball foretells for Short, what a ride it will have been for the former 17th round selection.