Latest Cubs' roster cut was a foregone conclusion, but his story is just beginning

Overshadowed by the news that Michael Conforto would crack the Opening Day roster, the Chicago Cubs returned Jefferson Rojas to minor league camp in a move that was a foregone conclusion, despite his incredible spring, given he has all of 39 games at the Double-A level to his name - and zero at Triple-A.

That lack of high-level experience didn't slow him down at all in Cactus League action this spring, where he slashed .250/.294/.583 in 51 plate appearances. He led the Cubs in home runs and runs scored and was tied for the team lead in hits at the time he was sent back to minor league camp.

At just 20 years old, Rojas is still incredibly young - and the hope is this is just the start of his ascent to not only the top of Cubs prospect rankings, but a rapid rise through league-wide top-100 lists.

Last season, split between High-A and Double-A, Rojas slashed a combined .236/.343/.387in 470 trips to the dish. Despite struggles when he made the jump to Knoxville, few either within or outside the organization seemed seriously concerned, and his hit tool remains highly regarded (and we all saw why this spring).

Jefferson Rojas' long-term defensive home is yet to be determined

Whether or not he sticks at shortstop as he climbs through the system is a matter of debate - but it seems like his clearest path to the big leagues is second base. Barring an extension, Nico Hoerner will hit free agency at the end of the season - and while Matt Shaw could slot in there from his super-utility role, it's not inconceivable to think Rojas could force the Cubs' hand next year.

Maybe he doesn't win the starting job outright, but if this was just the first act of the show and he puts up numbers at Double (and, hopefully, Triple) A this season - then he might be the name to watch in Cubs camp this time next year.