3 prospects that should make Cubs Opening Day roster

2. Brailyn Marquez

Brailyn Marquez is just 22 years old and has been in the organization since 2015. The left-handed pitcher made his MLB debut late last season and gave up five earned runs in less than an inning of work. But the team isn’t too worried about the shaky debut.

Marquez is a perfect example of someone who should make the roster if there were no service time reasons to hold him back. However, he is someone who will likely see time with the team later in the year once the Cubs can retain that extra year of control over his finances.

The young southpaw is someone who projects to be a key contributor for years to come. He had 128 strikeouts in 103.2 innings back in 2019 between two minor league levels and his brief debut last season should help ease the nerves in 2021.

There is always the option of letting him work out of the bullpen. However, a more likely scenario is him starting in the minors and getting starting work.