Cubs Expect Power To Develop Later For Pure Hitter James Triantos
The Cubs drafted James Triantos in the second round in 2021 but signed him for first-round money.
Now in his fourth pro season, the 21-year-old second baseman’s stock continues to rise.
Triantos’ impressive offensive production forced the Cubs to promote him to Triple-A Iowa during the first week of August alongside third baseman Matt Shaw and outfielder Kevin Alcantara.
Triantos hit .300/.345/.437 with seven home runs and 38 stolen bases in 89 games for Double-A Tennessee.
“You look at the run environment at Double-A this year, what he was doing is really impressive,” Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer said.
“At his age to be hitting .300 at that level and not striking out, when you factor in the hitting environment, it’s really impressive numbers.”
The Cubs plan to continue exposing Triantos to different positions defensively. Drafted as a shortstop, he now claims second base as his primary position, while also seeing time in center field. Hoyer noted that it makes sense to move him around, citing Triantos’ athleticism.
Triantos’ bat has fueled his climb. He built off a strong performance in the Arizona Fall League last year, when he was named the league’s offensive player of the year.
A great understanding of the strike zone and a disciplined approach helps set up Triantos for success, highlighted by his 9.7% strikeout rate with the Smokies. He is still learning to tap into his power.
“I think the power often comes late,” Hoyer said. “A lot of that’s learning where to take your chances and when to do that. He hits the ball plenty hard.
“I do think he’s got really unique bat-to-ball skills and, eventually, I do think that will come with some power.”
