Spring Training Spotlight: Cubs’ New Faces, Rising Prospects, and What to Watch in 2026
The sun is shining in Arizona, and that can only mean one thing-Cubs baseball is back. As spring training opens, the North Siders enter camp with a roster that’s been reshaped and reloaded, headlined by the additions of Edward Cabrera and Alex Bregman.
The front office didn’t just tinker this offseason-they made moves designed to push this team into serious contention. Now, the focus shifts to how those pieces come together-and who else might emerge during February and March.
Spring training isn’t just about the veterans fine-tuning their routines. It’s also the time when fans get their first glimpse of the next wave of talent-some of whom could play key roles in the months ahead.
The Cubs’ farm system has seen some turnover, with Matt Shaw and Cade Horton graduating to the big leagues and Owen Caissie dealt to Miami. That’s left the door open for a new group of prospects to step into the spotlight.
Here’s a look at four young players in camp who could make some noise this spring-and what their path might look like in 2026.
4. Jaxon Wiggins, RHP - The Long-Term Arm to Watch
Wiggins enters camp as the top pitching prospect in the organization, and there’s plenty to like about his upside. The fastball is big-league ready, and the raw stuff is electric.
But the Cubs are going to play the long game here. Wiggins is likely to be eased into action this spring, with an eye on keeping him healthy and building up his workload gradually.
Don’t expect him to push for a roster spot right out of camp-but don’t be surprised if he’s knocking on the door by midseason. If he can stay on track developmentally, Wiggins could be a real factor in the second half, especially if the Cubs need a jolt on the mound during the dog days.
3. Jefferson Rojas, IF - A Glimpse of the Future Infield
Rojas gets a slight bump here for one simple reason: opportunity. With the Cubs’ infield picture still somewhat fluid and no veteran additions locking down the depth spots, Rojas should see a decent chunk of playing time early in camp. He’s unlikely to break camp with the big-league club, but spring training is a great chance for him to show what he can do against major-league arms.
If he puts together a strong showing, he could become a name to watch at the trade deadline-either as a call-up candidate or as a valuable piece in a potential deal. Either way, this spring is a key moment for Rojas to make an impression.
2. Kevin Alcántara, OF - On the Bubble, But Built for the Bigs
Alcántara is right in the thick of the roster battle for the final bench spot, but he’s got stiff competition in Dylan Carlson and Chas McCormick. Still, this isn’t just about 2026. With Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ both set to hit free agency next offseason, Alcántara could be a big part of the Cubs’ future outfield.
He’s got the tools-size, speed, power-to be an everyday player down the line. Whether that future starts this April or a little further down the road, Alcántara’s performance this spring could shape his trajectory. He’s also a name that could surface in trade talks if the Cubs are buyers midseason.
1. Moisés Ballesteros, C/DH - The X-Factor in the Lineup
Ballesteros might not just be a spring training storyline-he could be a central figure in the Cubs’ 2026 campaign. The plan is for him to serve as the primary designated hitter, giving him a real runway to establish himself in the lineup. And with Miguel Amaya and Christian Bethancourt away for the World Baseball Classic, Ballesteros should also get a good look behind the plate.
He brings a potent bat and a mature approach for his age, and the Cubs are clearly betting on his offensive upside. If he clicks early, Ballesteros could become one of the breakout stories not just of spring, but of the entire season.
Final Word
This spring isn’t just about shaking off the rust-it’s about setting the tone. The Cubs have made it clear they’re aiming high in 2026, and the mix of proven veterans and rising talent gives them a roster with real potential.
While the spotlight will be on the big names like Bregman and Cabrera, don’t sleep on the young guns. Spring training is their stage too-and a few of them might just steal the show.