Following Jonathon Long's award-winning campaign in 2025, most have expected the Iowa Cubs' starting first baseman to mount a serious challenge to Tyler Austin in spring training. Whoever wins that competition would become the Chicago Cubs' backup corner infielder.
However, Long isn't the only power-hitting threat in the organization with a chance to make some noise this spring. Though he stalled out at Double-A and is aging out of notable-prospect range, BJ Murray Jr. showcased some impressive tools at the plate last year en route to being named a Southern League All-Star.
Though he'll have to battle with Austin, Long, and others for a chance to make the Cubs' roster, expect Murray to use this year's spring training as a launching pad back to relevancy within the farm system.