The Chicago Cubs organization is heralding a new era as three of its brightest stars — infielders Matt Shaw and James Triantos, and outfielder Kevin Alcantara — are slated to join the Triple-A ranks with the Iowa Cubs. This move, announced by Cubs assistant general manager Jared Banner on Sunday, packs the Iowa roster with an unprecedented level of talent that fans have eagerly awaited.

The trio’s promotion from Double-A Tennessee is not just a routine shuffle within the minor leagues. Instead, it is a strategic enhancement of the team’s future core. Matt Shaw, a 22-year-old power-hitting infielder who was Chicago’s first-round pick in last season’s draft, has dominated the diamond with impressive hitting stats—sporting a .279/.373/.468 batting line with 11 doubles and 14 homers in 86 games. More impressively, he was named Southern League Double-A Player of the Week and owned a .373/.414/.647 during the month of July.

Joining Shaw is James Triantos, a dynamic 21-year-old infielder, whose prowess on the field and basepaths has been evident with a .300/.345/.437 slash line, supplemented by 18 doubles, five triples, and an impressive tally of 38 stolen bases. Kevin Alcantara, once a key piece in the Anthony Rizzo trade, has showcased his potential through a .271/.342/.409 stat line, making him not just a fan favorite but a critical part of the Cubs’ future outfield.

With the arrival of Shaw, Triantos, and Alcantara, the Iowa Cubs amass a lineup featuring seven of the organization’s Top 10 prospects, promising a shift in the team’s performance and fan engagement. This influx of top-tier talent offers a glimpse into the future, marking a significant milestone in the Cubs’ strategy to cultivate homegrown talent for sustained success. With this next step, the Cubs are getting closer to sowing the seeds of their prospect pool.

Jared Banner’s insight into the promotions highlights the organization’s faith in their young talents: “These players have demonstrated exceptional skill and work ethic, and we believe they are ready to take the next step in their development.”

Adding to the excitement, infielder Matt Shaw shared his enthusiasm: “It’s an honor to advance with such talented teammates. We’re eager to contribute to the Iowa Cubs and bring our passion for the game every day.”

With more big names joining the likes of Owen Caissie, Cade Horton, and other top prospects at Iowa, the Cubs are getting closer to graduating some of their top talent to the majors and beefing up their current group.