JCHICAGO — Former top prospect James Triantos, once seen as a key piece of the Chicago Cubs’ future, has suffered another injury setback while playing for Triple-A Iowa, raising new concerns about his durability and long-term role in the organization.
The 22-year-old infielder, who began the 2025 season on a hopeful note after an encouraging spring, had already missed two weeks earlier in the season due to a leg injury. His latest setback occurred following the I-Cubs’ game on May 24 against the Columbus Clippers. While the specifics of the injury have not been publicly disclosed, the team has confirmed he will be sidelined indefinitely as he undergoes further evaluation.
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Triantos had recently begun to find his rhythm at the plate, slashing .250/.304/.313 over 138 plate appearances this year. While the numbers don’t jump off the page, his recent 13-game stretch before the injury was encouraging, as he posted a 110 wRC+, signaling above-average production during that span. Cubs development staff and scouts had taken notice, especially given his improved plate discipline and defensive consistency at second base.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell acknowledged Triantos’ progress in a recent interview, saying, “James has been working hard, and we were seeing some real growth. It’s frustrating for everyone when a young player runs into this kind of bad luck.” Triantos, who was once ranked among the top 100 prospects in baseball, remains on the Cubs’ 40-man roster and is still seen as a potential contributor at the Major League level when healthy.
With the Cubs navigating a season filled with both promise and inconsistency, Triantos’ development remains an important storyline. The front office has not ruled out a possible promotion later this summer, depending on his health. “We’re not giving up on James,” said Cubs VP of Player Development Jared Banner. “He’s still very much in our plans. We just want to make sure we get him back to full strength.”
As the Cubs push forward in the NL Central race, the hope is that Triantos can return to action later this season and continue his upward trend. For now, the organization and fans alike will be monitoring his recovery closely, hoping the young infielder can bounce back and fulfill the promise that once made him one of the most exciting prospects in the Cubs’ system.
