Cubs’ Offseason Choices May Affect Prospect’s Chances of Making the Major Leagues
Pete Crow-Armstrong, a top prospect, has a much lower chance of making a major league contribution on a full-time basis if the Cubs decide to re-sign Cody Bellinger. Bellinger’s move to outfield means that Crow-Armstrong, who struggled mightily during his September callup the previous season, may have to spend several more months in the minor leagues.
Additionally, Bellinger might be re-signed by Chicago and used at first base, giving Crow-Armstrong a chance to demonstrate his abilities in a major-league setting. In terms of organization, that might be a better course of action.
But the front staff will probably be more concerned with the here and now than with planning for the future if they think they have a chance to compete this offseason. According to MLB.com, Crow-Armstrong is the Cubs prospect to keep an eye on throughout spring training. He also notes that if they add more offensive players, the team’s plans may change.
Slashed, Crow-Armstrong is considered one of baseball’s best defensive prospects.283/.365/.511 with 37 steals and 20 home runs between Double-A and Triple-A in the previous season.
In the major leagues, his defense will carry him, and if he can also develop as a bat, Chicago may have a gem in the No. 16-ranked prospect. It’s unclear what will happen to Crow-Armstrong and other prospects who will be participating in Spring Training if some of the bigger names are added, especially because Bellinger and other targets are still available.