Getting to Know Cubs Draft Pick: Ronny Cruz |
Throughout an MLB draft, you have surprise picks, and then you have what people call reaches. The Cubs' third-round pick in the 2024 MLB draft was not only a surprise pick, but it was also one of those picks where you can honestly say it was a massive reach, as the Cubs made this selection solely based on potential rather than the body of work.
With the Cubs selecting eight position players in their first 10 picks, Jed Hoyer and Carter Hawkins clearly made a point to address the offense, which has hampered the Cubs this season. Taking Cam Smith and Cole Mathis as their first two selections made a ton of sense, as both of them fit a position this team needs while also offering some nice pop from the right side. Drafting Cruz at No. 90 overall is a mystery, especially considering he is an SS. Ranked as the No. 386th best prospect in this year's draft, many scouts had him pegged as a ninth or 10th round selection, so to see him go in round three was a massive shock. The big question for the Miami Christian School (High School) product will be whether or not he chooses to sign with the Cubs or honor his commitment to play for the University of Miami. While reaching for Cruz was a massive shot to most fans, it shouldn't come as a surprise, as they have made moves like this in virtually every draft. This is one of those players who was born overseas, in this case, Dominican Republic, and chose to move stateside to advance in the MLB draft to help his career. Javy Baez is the Cubs' most famous draft pick who took a similar route, and we went on to have several big years for the Cubs before falling off. You can see a lot of potential in Cruz as his 6-1 and 170-pound frame stands out. Of course, he will need to get stronger and put on a ton of muscle, but his body build will allow him to do that, which is all the Cubs can ask for at this point. Not only is the potential there, but the power potential stands out the most as he provides a ton of power from the right side of the plate that could translate into even more power the older he gets. At just 17 years old, Cruz batted .397 this past season while also posting a .479 on-base percentage and a 1.050 OPS in 75 plate appearances. Throw in five doubles and two homers in 21 games, and there is a reason why he emerged as the No. 12 prospect in the state of Florida. He is now facing one of the toughest decisions of his life regarding his baseball career. Drafting Cruz in the third round is a play to save some money, as he is, without question, an under-slot guy. Although he was ranked No.386 overall, there is a good chance he would've gone in the top five rounds, regardless. He made quite a name for himself at the Draft combine, which is why his stock started to skyrocket the way it did. His two homers may not give off the impression that he hits for power, but Cruz flashed his raw power during batting practice. Given his body type, there is little question that he will add more strength to further increase his power potential. However, hitting for power will only get you so far in today's game, as he does need to clean up the lower half of his body on his swing while also finding a way to make more consistent contact. The main reason the Cubs took a swing at him as early as they did falls onto his overall position. A SS by trade, many scouts feel he will move to 3B as his quickness and reliability could make him a better defender than most give him credit for. He also has an above-average arm right now, with the potential to become a great arm, which also plays a role in the position change. Due to his age, this is similar to an International Signing where the Cubs will take their time bringing him along. This is an interesting selection, but one filled with potential upside, which is all you ask for in a young player. Ronny Cruz (24,Fl) • SS for Miami Christian just missed a HR here hitting the fence on a line. Tall projectable frame, matches plane of pitch early. Fluid defensive actions, quick transfer with accurate throws from multiples angles. Miami Dade signee pic.twitter.com/JPYl0HteFB
