19 year old Starlin Castro is all the rave of Cubs spring training 2010.  It is nearly impossible (in Cub circles) to avoid hearing what a prospect this young shortstop is.   It has already been stated he will start the season in triple A.  I’m convinced however, Jim Hendry is going to have Ryan Theriot whacked to open the position. 

So what kind of potential are we looking at here Cub fans?  Are we talking Felix Pie, Corey Patterson, Eric Patterson, Hee-Sop-Choi, Ben Christensen, or Bobby Hill?  Maybe he is Jerome Walton, Dwight Smith, or Rick Wilkins.  How about the success of Mark Prior, Shawon Dunston, or Steve Trachsel.  Could it be we have Mark Grace, Kerry Wood, or Greg Maddux?

I’m guessing the true Starlin Castro falls in the middle of the above players.  He is going to be a fantastic defensive player at some point.  He has a smooth glove and too much athletic ability not to.  I expect him to develop into an average/above average hitter with a little pop.  If you can handle .275avg 15hr 70rbi, you shouldn’t be disappointed.  Starting next year I expect to see Castro starting at short for many years to come.  Don’t expect Greg Maddux, but lets not settle for Bobby Hill either. 

Filed under: Spring Training