One Chicago Cubs prospect made significant strides in 2023, catching the attention of MLB Pipeline’s prospect rankings.
Luis Vazquez, a shortstop in the Cubs’ organization, showcased remarkable improvement during the past season, putting him on the radar for the organization’s plans in 2024 and beyond.
Vazquez’s journey in professional baseball began in 2017 when he was selected by the Cubs in the 14th round of the draft, fresh out of a Puerto Rican high school. However, it took several years for the 24-year-old to solidify his place in Double-A Tennessee and Triple-A Iowa for an entire season.
Despite the delay, the Cubs see potential in Vazquez, although their middle infield is currently occupied by Dansby Swanson at shortstop and Nico Hoerner at second base.
During the 2023 season, Vazquez participated in 124 games, delivering a batting average of .271 along with an on-base percentage of .361, slugging .456, and an OPS of .817. His impressive stats included 72 runs, 24 doubles, 20 home runs, 80 RBI, 54 walks, and 121 strikeouts.
What makes Vazquez’s progress noteworthy is his across-the-board improvement compared to 2022, notably raising his batting average from .225. According to MLB Pipeline, he made a minor adjustment to his swing by lowering his hands at the plate.
Currently ranked as the Cubs’ No. 21 prospect, Vazquez’s tenure within the organization made him eligible for the Rule 5 Draft, prompting the Cubs to add him to the 40-man roster to protect his rights.
The Cubs have assigned Vazquez to Triple-A Iowa for the winter season, and he will join the Cubs’ Spring Training in contention for one of the utility roles on the roster, which will likely be limited to one or two spots.