5 Chicago Cubs prospects that took a major step forward in 2023

5 Cubs prospects that took a step forward - 2. Owen Caissie

Even though Owen Caissie didn't receive a promotion to Triple-A Iowa this season, thus spending all year in Double-A, he became a bonified stud, landing on MLB Pipelines' top 100 prospects list. He reached as high as #64 overall and #3 in the Cubs organization. After slashing .289/.398/.519 with 22 HRs, 84 RBIs, and a 144 wRC+, Caissie won the Cubs' Minor League Player of the Year award.

As good as Caissie was this season, it will be hard to envision a role he can play every day for the Cubs at the MLB level. The team already has Ian Happ, Seiya Suzuki, and presumably Pete Crow-Armstrong manning the outfield. They also have Alexander Canario, who could be given more of a role or used as trade bait to acquire someone like Juan Soto, who also fills an outfield role. Basically, the Cubs have "good problems" to have. However, for Caissie, carving out a path to everyday playing time isn't as crystal clear as it is for Luke Little, who fills a vital role.