The Chicago Cubs’ farm system has been a focal point of the organization’s efforts to rebuild and sustain long-term success. Via trade and smart draft selection, the farm system was become deep and sound, recognized as one of the best in all of baseball.
The Chicago Cubs’ Diamond on The Diamond
One of the more intriguing prospects in their pipeline is 18-year-old Ronny Cruz, a 2024 third-round draft pick whose combination of raw power, speed, and defensive potential has drawn attention from scouts and fans alike, earning him a ranking of no. 15 in the Cubs top prospects list, per MLB.com. Despite some challenges during his high school career, Cruz has the tools and determination to make an impact as he begins his professional baseball journey. He was recently named a breakout prospect for the Cubs, also by MLB.com.
Winning Hearts On Faith And Vision
Cruz’s story is one of resilience and talent. A standout shortstop in Florida, Cruz entered his senior year of high school with lofty expectations. However, a knee surgery in November 2023 sidelined him for much of the season, limiting scouts’ opportunities to evaluate him. For many players, this setback could have hurt their draft stock significantly. Yet, the Cubs remained confident in Cruz’s abilities, recognizing his raw talent and projectable skills. Their decision to select him in the third round of the 2024 MLB Draft speaks volumes about their faith in his potential.
While recovering from his surgery, Cruz focused on regaining his physical health and refining his game. By the end of his senior season, he was finally back to full strength, showcasing glimpses of the power and speed that make him such an exciting prospect. His performance, though limited, reaffirmed the Cubs’ belief that he could develop into a standout multi-tool player at the professional level.
On The Field…
At the plate, Cruz offers a blend of raw power and quickness that could make him a dynamic offensive threat. While his swing mechanics may need fine-tuning, his ability to drive the ball to all fields hints at significant offensive upside. On the basepaths, Cruz’s speed adds another dimension to his game, potentially making him a dual-threat player capable of both hitting for power and swiping bases.
Defensively, Cruz has all the tools to stick at shortstop. He displays smooth actions, quick hands, and a strong arm. As he gains experience and adjusts to the pace of professional baseball, his defensive skills are expected to further solidify, enhancing his value as an all-around player.
The Chicago Cubs are taking a measured approach with Cruz, understanding that his development will require time and patience.
Ronny Cruz represents a key piece of the Cubs’ vision for the future. In a system that prioritizes athleticism and versatility, his skill set aligns perfectly with the team’s long-term goals. While he may be a few years away from contributing at Wrigley Field, his potential to develop into a top-tier shortstop makes him a prospect worth watching.
Chicago Cubs payroll down an estimated $55 million
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