3 Cubs Prospects Who Should Be Off Limits During Winter Trade Talks
By Sean Facey
The Chicago Cubs are undergoing a slew of changes this offseason, both on and off of the field. Trade rumors have swirled around them since the offseason began, and it's possible that in addition to trying to ship out stars like Kris Bryant and Willson Contreras, they might also look to add via a deal or two.
If they do end up being buyers in any capacity, then they need to make sure that these prospects don't even get mentioned as possible pieces unless it's a deal that makes them over-the-top World Series contenders.
3. LHP Brailyn Marquez
The Cubs' already shallow farm system is sorely lacking pitching depth, and moving a talented arm like Marquez would be a massive blunder. A 20-year-old with a fastball that touches 99 MPH, Marquez finished his stint in High-A ball last year with a 1.71 ERA and 26 strikeouts in 26.1 innings. He's got plenty of upside, and the Cubs would be surely regret it if they traded him.
2. C Miguel Amaya
Amaya ranks as the 90th overall prospect in baseball in part because of his ability to hit for power. He managed 11 home runs and 24 doubles in 341 at-bats last year, flashing some serious potential as an offensive threat from behind the plate. His defense and running leave something to be desired, but at 20 years of age, he still has time to round those things out. If the Cubs do end up trading star backstop Willson Contreras, then they absolutely have to keep Amaya stashed away for the future.
1. SS Nico Hoerner
Hoerner cracked the majors in 2019 and slashed a respectable .282/.305/.436 with three home runs and 11 runs batted in through his first 20 games. He ranks as Chicago's top prospect and has drawn nothing but praise from scouts. He can provide offensive prowess at the shortstop position, be the Robin to Javier Baez's Batman, and be an everyday star in the Cubs' lineup if they make sure to hold onto him and he continues to develop.