Chicago Cubs Top Prospects – The Chicago Cubs have experienced a youth movement over the past couple of seasons, ushering in a new era defined by emerging young talent. With several top prospects on the cusp of reaching the majors in 2024, the future continues to look bright on the North Side. In the realm of MLB betting prediction and picks, outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, pitcher Cade Horton, and infielder Matt Shaw headline the Cubs’ farm system and could make a significant impact at Wrigley Field this coming season.
Chicago Cubs Top Prospects – Brilliant Glovework with Developing Bat, Pete Crow-Armstrong Stands Out
Ranked as the No. 16 overall MLB prospect, 22-year-old Pete Crow-Armstrong will look to build on his 2023 big-league debut and establish himself as a core piece of the Cubs’ lineup. The defensive wizard patrols center field with grace, instinct, and elite athleticism. His quick first step and closing speed allow him to cover extensive ground, while his strong and accurate throwing arm enables him to deter baserunners. After acquiring Crow-Armstrong from the Mets in 2021, the Cubs have witnessed the outfielder blossom into a potential Gold Glove candidate for years to come.
However, questions remain regarding Crow-Armstrong’s offensive production. He has worked tirelessly to lift the ball more frequently and tap into his raw power, but it has come at the expense of an elevated strikeout rate. Moving forward, the Cubs hope he can find the right balance of hard contact versus consistency, possibly settling into a slash line reminiscent of Cardinals standout Harrison Bader. Regardless, with game-changing defense and the potential for an average bat, Crow-Armstrong seems destined to man center field on Chicago’s next playoff team.
Flashing Dynamic Three-Pitch Mix, Cade Horton Poised to Crack Rotation
As the seventh overall pick in 2022, the Cubs knew right-hander Cade Horton contained immense upside but also substantial risk coming out of Oklahoma. However, after dominating across three minor-league levels last season, including six outstanding starts at Double-A, the 22-year-old appears ready to seize a rotation spot in the majors. Horton commands a lively fastball complemented by two plus breaking balls that baffle hitters. He also throws enough strikes to comfortably project future success as a starting pitcher rather than a bullpen piece.
The only hindrance to Horton breaking camp with the Cubs this spring involves possible workload restrictions. He tossed just 88 innings last season as Chicago carefully monitored his outings and pitch counts. Similar to how the Dodgers handled Bobby Miller, the Cubs may limit Horton early on before granting him free rein later in the year. But once uncorked, Horton boasts the arsenal and composure to quickly emerge as a rotation building block behind Marcus Stroman and Javier Assad. Pencil in the young hurler for an early summer call-up, if not sooner.
Fundamentally Sound Matt Shaw Ready to Contribute Across Infield
Although not as heralded as fellow draftees Cam Collier and Justin Crawford, Matt Shaw wasted no time exhibiting why the Cubs selected him 13th overall last June. After torching minor-league pitching at three levels, the 22-year-old heads into 2024 poised to garner big-league innings at multiple infield positions. Shaw displays modest power but an advanced hit tool and approach that yielded a .357 average in his first exposure to pro ball. He also flashed versatility in the field while eliciting positive reviews for his fundamentals and instincts.
The main uncertainty involves where Shaw fits best defensively given an average arm that may eventually restrict him to second base or a utility role. But the Cubs continue grooming him at shortstop, second base, and third base for now. Regardless of position, Shaw constitutes the type of athletic, well-rounded prospect Chicago wants populating its lineup moving forward. Expect the polished infielder to debut this summer and vie for regular playing time, if not in an everyday capacity.
Cubs Top Prospects Gear Up for MLB Betting Impact
Bolstered by several promising talents nearing the top level, the Cubs appear set to rejoin the ranks of NL contenders sooner than later. Both Pete Crow-Armstrong and Cade Horton rank among the top 20 league-wide prospects, while Matt Shaw also INCIDENT brings an impactful skill set to the fold. Add in corner infield masher Matt Mervis, emerging teenage outfielders Owen Caissie and Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Chicago’s farm now overflows with intrigue and ability.
So even if the Cubs endure several more seasons of rebuilding before achieving sustainable success, their top prospects should keep games interesting for MLB betting purposes along the way. Routine brilliance from Crow-Armstrong in center field, electrifying strikeouts by Horton, and rock-solid contribution from Shaw will grab attention on the North Side throughout 2024. While playoffs remain unlikely, the Cubs’ youthful core at least provides a hopeful glimpse into a much brighter tomorrow on the horizon.
Reliable Sportsbooks Offer MLB Futures and Prop Bets
As the Cubs both develop their farm system and construct a championship roster, reliable sportsbooks allow fans to support their beloved team through various MLB betting options. Futures wagers on win totals, divisional and World Series odds constitute popular choices. Chicago backers can also target player props surrounding standout prospects such as total hits or home runs for Pete Crow-Armstrong.
By monitoring lines at trustworthy online sportsbooks all season long, Cubs supporters can enhance their fandom through friendly wagers. Then if Pete Crow-Armstrong flashes Gold Glove defense, Cade Horton strikes out batter after batter, and Matt Shaw steadily produces, payouts get that much sweeter. For the best Cubs odds and props, sign up at a reputable sports betting site today.
