Cubs Prospect Perspective: Cayne Ueckert

I enjoy talking about “incrementalism” in affiliated baseball. While many fans pooh-pooh minor upgrades, a perceived minor upgrade can eventually turn into a monstrous improvement of the entire organization. The Padres’ waiver claim of Kirby Yates in 2017 drew 26 comments on MLB Trade Rumors, and none projected successive fantastic seasons. A transaction that fills an empty 40-man roster spot, or upgrades the final spot, is probably a useful move regardless of any fanfare. Even if it doesn’t pay off long-term, a step in the right direction is a step in the right direction. Similarly, some draft selections seem rather uninspiring, especially if the uninspired fan is unfamiliar with the player.