7 Cubs prospects who are expendable, 2 they should keep for 2025

If you want to acquire impact talent, you have to trade impact prospects

The Cubs' first-round pick this year, Cam Smith out of Florida State, checked every box imaginable in his first taste of pro ball. In 32 games across A, High-A and Double-A ball, he posted a 1.004 OPS and could make the jump to Triple-A next summer.

Trading him, especially when third base still feels somewhat uncertain after Isaac Paredes' erratic performance since coming over at the trade deadline, would be risky. But with other internal options waiting in the wings, namely Matt Shaw, it's a risk that Hoyer could decide is worth taking.

Smith snuck into the top 100 rankings in MLB Pipeline's latest update, checking in at #100, only furthering the allure surrounding him. The Cubs need a front-of-the-rotation starting pitcher, proven arms in the bullpen, a legitimate long-term solution at catcher and a big impact bat. Smith could help them fill some of these needs, but it could be a painful look back in just a few years' time.