Feb. 11--It may seem shocking at first, but there's a thorough explanation why the Chicago Cubs were ranked only 20th in organizational talent in Baseball America's recent rankings.
The publication ranks each organization's minor league talent based on players who haven't haven't surpassed 130 at-bats, 50 innings or 30 relief appearances in the major leagues.
That eliminated the likes of Kris Bryant, Kyle Schwarber and Addison Russell, whom all made major contributions on the major league level sooner than projected.
The publication cited center field as the Cubs' "best-stocked position," with Albert Almora, D.J. Wilson, Eddy Julio Martinez and Jacob Hannemann providing quality depth in the minors.
Pitcher Trevor Clifton, who struck out 103 in 108 2/3 innings at Class-A South Bend last season, was listed as a breakout candidate. Clifton, 20, a 12th round pick in the 2013 draft, is the organization's 18th top prospect, according to the organization.
The Dodgers received the top ranking, while the White Sox were 23rd.
