3 prospects that should make Cubs Opening Day roster

The Cubs have several top prospects who should be on the Opening Day roster in 2021.

The Chicago Cubs avoided any sort of major rebuild this offseason. Kris Bryant is still on the roster and as it stands now, the team is looking to make one final run with the current core in place.

That could always change and any move opens up a spot for a prospect to come up and earn playing time. The Cubs have several top prospects in the organization who deserve a spot regardless of any trades that will be made.

Service time is always going to be in focus and the manipulation of that time is a main reason why Bryant and the Cubs don’t have a great relationship. So let’s take a look at a few prospects who should make the team based on talent alone.

3. Adbert Alzolay

Adbert Alzolay is still considered a prospect even though he has spent time at the MLB level in 2019 and 2020. He has six starts and 10 total appearances to his name in two seasons.

The Cubs traded Yu Darvish and let Jon Lester walk in free agency. Jake Arrieta has returned, but Alzolay absolutely deserves a spot in the rotation or even the bullpen.

Fans may glimpse at his career ERA and be alarmed by the 4.54 number. However, he allowed seven runs in one 2019 start that is skewing his ERA higher than it would be with more time on the mound.

The right-hander will be 26 years old when the season begins so it is about time the Cubs give him a full-time role and see what they have in him. He has an 8.2 K/9 in the minors and has proven to be a capable starter at that level. Having him stick in the rotation would be a cheap way to make sure there is no drop-off in production given the departed talent.