Chicago Cubs: 3 Cubs primed for a breakout in 2023

3 Cubs breakout candidates - 2. Patrick Wisdom

Granted, Patrick Wisdom put himself on the map when he was given a chance to shine in 2021. Wisdom posted the Cubs' home run rookie record and followed that season up with 25 more homers in 2022. For Wisdom, cutting down on the strikeouts is critical. You'd love to see him increase his batting average and draw a few more walks. This year, he should have a little more protection around him in the lineup, which may see him get a few better pitches to hit.

Pencil me in as someone who believes Wisdom will see his first 30-homer campaign in a Cubs uniform this season. After over a year and a half in the majors, he has enough experience to put it all together at the highest level. The Cubs can use a better glove defensively at third base, but they will have to roll the dice there in the meantime with the addition of Eric Hosmer taking on DH duties if Matt Mervis sees time at first base. Either way, Wisdom as a DH is a highly viable option. Look for him to take a big step forward in 2023.