Two Cubs on AFL All-Prospect Team

The Arizona Fall League released there 2009 All-Prospect Team and the Chicago Cubs had two prospects on the list, both infielders. Shortstop Starlin Castro dazzled the AFL batting .376 and tied for third in stolen bases at nine. Castro could fill a need for the Cubs being a good defensive shortstop, being able to hit, and steal some bases. Josh Vitters batted .353 and looked good at third. Both are on track to be with the Cubs in their future. Castro looks to be there sooner than later though, with the chance to be called up later into the 2010 season. Vitters is taking longer, but should be Ramirez's replacement in a few years.

Last year the Cubs lost left handed pitcher Donald veal in the Rule 5 draft to the Pirates because the Cubs protected Jeff Samardzija and put him on the 40 man roster over Donald Veal. Veal spent the season on the Pirates roster mostly on the DL, but now they get to keep him. I have always been a fan of Veal and was mad when he was drafted in the rule 5 draft. Veal had a very good season in the AFL with a 2.14 ERA, 22 strikeouts, 1.14 WHIP, and opponent batting average of only .221. Only a sign of more good things to come from him.