Chicago Cubs: 5 positive takeaways from the 2022 season

5 positive Cubs takeaways – #1: Key prospects having fantastic seasons

The primary reason the front office and ownership looks to be willing to spend is simple. The next core is on its way and it’s time to start adding the star power around these kids. Ultimately, the plan has always been “wait to spend” until the team could keep a competitive window open for the longest amount of time possible. In essence, there wasn’t ever much point in spending on huge free agents last winter when the Cubs never really had enough to think about hoisting another banner above the Wrigley Field bleachers.

After all the trades at the deadline last season, the Cubs now have a nice set up with several key prospects at every level. Guys like Nelson Velazquez, Javier Assad, Hayden Wesneski and Christopher Morel have made it to the majors. In Triple-A Iowa you have Matt Mervis, Alexander Canario, Jeremiah Estrada, Danis Correa, Caleb Kilian and not to mention top 100 prospect Brennen Davis – all of whom should be eyeing a call-up next season if things go as planned.

In Double-A Tennessee, the Cubs have Jordan Wicks, Jake Slaughter, Ben Brown and Walker Powell who all had great seasons. At High-A South Bend, fresh off a Midwest League Championship, you have Pete Crow-Armstrong, Luis Devers, Owen Caissie and Porter Hodge – to name a few. in Single-A Myrtle Beach, there’s Kevin Alcantara and more getting their feet wet in the pros.

First, you get the farm in place. Then, you spend the big bucks to keep a competitive window open for years to come. A powerhouse like the Dodgers, who spend like they’re playing with Monopoly money, while simultaneously possessing a seemingly endless pipeline of prospects serve as a solid example of what the Cubs should be looking to become. This season may not have ended with a ring – but there’s a lot to like about what we saw in 2022 – and what it means for the future.