Ranking Cubs top prospects' likelihood of making an impact at 2026 spring training

Spring training has arrived for the Chicago Cubs, and it will offer fans an early look at the 2026 team. The Cubs were busy this winter, spending the first couple of months stabilizing their bullpen before making the headline moves for Edward Cabrera and Alex Bregman. The moves have set high expectations for the Cubs this year, and the excitement will be felt in February and March.

The exhibition schedule also allows fans to get a look at various top prospects in the team's system before they get assigned to minor-league camp. Among the Cubs' non-roster invites are top prospects Jaxon Wiggins and Jefferson Rojas.

Ranking Cubs top prospects' likelihood of making an impact at 2026 spring training

The important caveat is that the Cubs' farm system isn't as strong as it has been in recent years. With Matt Shaw and Cade Horton graduating to the major league level and Owen Caissie traded to the Miami Marlins, the Cubs are looking for that next wave of prospects to reach the top of their system.

4. Jaxon Wiggins, RHP

Wiggins is going to be the best pitching prospect that the Cubs have in camp, but the team likely will be cautious with his usage. It's why his impact at spring training will likely be minimal. A key part of Wiggins' development plan this year will be ensuring he is ready for a potential promotion during the second half of the season.

3. Jefferson Rojas, IF

Playing time is the only reason why Rojas gets a bump ahead of Wiggins. Short of the Cubs bringing in another veteran infielder, Rojas should see a fair amount of playing time in spring training. It's hard to point to Rojas having much of a chance ot reach the majors in 2026, but with an impressive showing before the regular season, he could emerge as a potential trade chip.

2. Kevin Alcantara, OF

Alcantara is in the mix for the final spot on the bench, but it will likely go to one of Dylan Carlson or Chas McCormick. With Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ free agents next offseason, Alcantara still has long-term value with the Cubs. Like Rojas, he could also be a potential trade chip ahead of the trade deadline.

1. Moises Ballesteros, C/DH

Ballesteros is one of the X-factors to the Cubs' 2026 season. He's going to have an extended runway in the team's starting lineup, serving as the primary designated hitter. With Miguel Amaya and Christian Bethancourt participating in the World Baseball Classic, Ballesteros could also see some regular time at catcher during spring.