Could Chicago Cubs Exciting Prospect Be on Verge of Call-Up?

The Chicago Cubs may need another outfielder at some point this season, and this long-time farmhand should be considered.

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

At some point, the Chicago Cubs’ are likely to need an outfielder. They have six on the active roster now, but one — Cody Bellinger — is working at first base as he works his way back into every day play.

Another, Miles Mastrobuoni, is batting .148. Christopher Morel and Mike Tauchman are both hitting the ball well right now.

But, as Bellinger showed earlier this season, injuries happen.

When one does, it may be time for the Cubs to consider calling up a particular outfielder — Yonathan Perlaza.

Yes, he’s been in the Cubs’ organization since 2016 and it’s been a long road to Triple-A Iowa. But his numbers have been on an uptick the past three seasons and may be ready to step into a depth role if needed.

His slash numbers after 49 games are some of the best of his career — .297/.402/.530/.932. He’s hit six home runs and 33 RBI. He’s on pace to match what he did at High Class-A South Bend in 2021, where he hit 15 home runs and drove in 64 runs. He could also approach what did last season at Double-A Tennessee — 23 home runs and 73 RBI, both of which are single-season career highs.

His strikeout and walk numbers are much more balanced than in previous seasons. He’s struck out 47 times and walked 30 times. With Tennessee, for instance, he struck out 127 times and walked 72 times.

He’s also starting to come up with clutch hits in key moments. On Saturday his sacrifice fly drove in the winning run in a tie game.

Bottom of the 9th. Bases load. Tie game.

In the dream scenario, Yonathan Perlaza walks it off for the @IowaCubs after being down, 11-6, in the 8th! pic.twitter.com/6fh4BdqZND

— Minor League Baseball (@MiLB) June 18, 2023

Earlier this month he had a career-high three doubles in a game.

Perlaza also brings some versatility. He started his career playing second base, shortstop and third base. But in the past few seasons he’s transitioned to playing left or right field. He has seven career errors as an outfielder and has 14 assists.

Perlaza is a player with 461 games and 1,712 career at-bats entering this week’s action against the Memphis Redbirds.

Surely that’s enough experience and productivity for the Cubs to give him a shot the next time a spot opens up? 

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