DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL Central—CHC's Infield Outlook

Chicago Cubs   

As the early cornerstones of the rebuilding effort,  Anthony Rizzo (1B, CHC) and Starlin Castro (SS, 1B) were 2013 disappointments—particularly Castro, whose career-low bb% and ct% and .250-ish BA/xBA combo were discouraging signs from a four-year MLB veteran. But their contracts—both are extended through 2019—and ages (23) are likely to give them extended opportunities to rebound.

But with plenty of fast-tracking infield prospects, the Cubs may have options everywhere sooner than some observers expect. Middle-infielder Arismendy Alcántara (2B/SS, CHC) probably needs more minor league time this spring to work on his contact. But 16 HR, a 31/6 SB/CS and 62 BB over his first 500+ AB in Double-A point to a broad skill set....

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

The BHQ playing time metrics give us a new perspective on our previous beliefs about NL West players. So this week, let's see what we can learn.
May 16 2026 3:06am
Michael Conforto is playing more against righties during a hot streak, but the Cubs are trying to keep Moisés Ballesteros in the lineup against them as well
May 15 2026 3:05am
Using BaseballHQ's exclusive Playing Time Metrics to examine usage trends across the NL East.
May 14 2026 11:17am
Isaac Collins has struggled vs. LHP, and it might be time for the Royals to give Jac Caglianone another shot at everyday at-bats. Plus, Sam Antonacci's rise in CHW, Angel Martínez's platoon splits in CLE, an opportunity for Matt Vierling in DET, and why the Twins won't play Ryan Jeffers more.
May 14 2026 3:06am
Vaughn Grissom and Oswald Peraza are forcing the issue to change the platoon situation in Anaheim.
May 13 2026 3:05am

Tools