Chicago Cubs: 3 Cubs primed for a breakout in 2023

In 2022, the Chicago Cubs saw breakout seasons from Ian Happ, Justin Steele, and Nico Hoerner. They will look to continue that trend of players that exceed expectations and give themselves an indispensable reputation. Fast forwarding to now, the Cubs will need more of the same from other guys. Ahead, we've listed three Cubs that are in line for a tremendous season and uptick in production, and if even one of them can work out, it significantly helps their chances of competing this coming season.

From offense to the starting rotation to the bullpen, the Cubs have exciting talent all over the field. With all the attention being on the teams that inked the largest deals this winter, the Cubs are currently flying under the radar, especially after what they did in the second half record-wise and with the emergence of key starters in the rotation. They are now the definition of a dark-horse team for the postseason in 2023. Let's analyze those three players who could be ready for breakout campaigns.

3 Cubs breakout candidates - 3. Hayden Wesneski

First off, after what he saw from Hayden Wesneski in a small sample in 2022, there's no reason to believe he can't continue to build off of that success. Granted, Wesneski may not start in the rotation to begin the season, but the thought is that he can be utilized early on as a bulk reliever. With the Cubs looking to contend this season, they will spend little time on a player underperforming if a guy proves he has what it takes to be given a more significant role.

Wesneski posted a 2.18 ERA in 33 frames last year, showing filthy movement on his pitches. In two of his first three career starts, he posted quality starts, twirling 13.1 innings and allowing only three earned runs in that time. His production next season, if it's anywhere on par with what he saw in 2022, will help a Cubs team get over the hump and aim towards competing for a 2023 National League Central Division crown.