The 2022 campaign hasn’t gone the way the Chicago Cubs probably expected.
After spending big bucks on Wade Miley, Seiya Suzuki, Marcus Stroman, Drew Smyly, and other pieces, they currently own a disappointing 23-32 record that has them on the outside looking in for the hunt for the playoffs.
However, that doesn’t mean the season has been a complete waste.
It has helped them unearth some gems from their minor league system.
The latest young star, Christopher Morel, has shown enough to enter the team’s plans for the future.
He has been an amazing source of production for Chicago.
“Christopher Morel has reached base safely in 20 straight games to begin his #Cubs career!,” the team tweeted.
Christopher Morel has reached base safely in 20 straight games to begin his #Cubs career! pic.twitter.com/H0n9VOnyLl
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) June 6, 2022
Reaching base in the majors is hard enough, so imagine being a rookie and doing it for 20 straight games.
He has to feel very good about himself.
The Cubs Have A Good One In Morel
Morel is a 22-year-old player with a versatile glove.
So far, he has played eight games at second base, two at shortstop, three at third base, and 11 in the outfield, earning reps everywhere with his potent bat.
As of Tuesday afternoon, Morel is hitting .291/.380/.468 with two home runs and six stolen bases.
He is known as a five-tool player: one capable of hitting for a high average, show some power, run some, defend his position adequately, and show a potent arm.
His OPS stands at .849.
That production seems sustainable at the highest level, since he was boasting a .945 OPS in 28 Double-A games before getting the call from the Cubs.
He will be a big part of what Chicago decides to do going forward, and has been a pleasant surprise and a dynamic young talent to keep an eye on in 2022.
NEXT: Cubs Failing Miserably In One Basic Aspect Of Baseball