Chicago Cubs: Five MLB draft day ‘dream’ scenarios

Chicago Cubs: Starring in the SEC

As we previously discussed a couple of pitchers and an outfielder, we stay on the outfield train with Arkansas Razorbacks centerfielder Heston Kjerstad. Kjerstad has been labeled as one of the most robust prospects in this year’s draft, and for a good reason.

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In 2017 the Seattle Mariners drafted Kjerstad in the 36th round. He decided to choose college over money, and it began a fantastic journey for the lefty. In each of his first two seasons, Kjerstad helped lead Arkansas to the College World Series.

As a freshman, Kjerstad destroyed the SEC by slashing .332/.419/.553, with 14 home runs in 69 games. Kjerstad followed that up in his sophomore season and slashed .329/.404/.574 over 63 games and 16 home runs. A big-bodied guy, Kjerstad, has the size and speed to be a staple in a major league outfield for years to come.

Beginning his junior season this year, Kjerstad had seized his opportunity by hitting .448 through the first 16 games. In 67 at-bats, Kjerstad smacked six home runs and drove 20 runs home. He carried a 1.304 OPS across 78 total plate appearances.

For the Cubs, Kjerstad would be a perfect fit for the center field role. Imagining an outfield core to include him and Brennen Davis is a dream come true. Maybe that dream will end up as more here in the next week and a half. For now, all Cubs fans can do is keep hoping.