Cubs star 'deemed expendable' by Dodgers continues to thrive in new home

The Chicago Cubs are getting more plate production than expected out of one of their infield positions in 2024.

As other of Chicago’s infielders have underwhelmed in the batter’s box this season, quality at-bats from Michael Busch have been a welcome sight for the North Siders all year long.

Busch is a rookie but doesn’t play like one. His calm plate demeanor goes hand-in-hand with his clutch gene, and he’s got all the makings of becoming a Wrigley Field fan favorite in years to come, so long as Chicago does the wise thing and keeps him around for the long haul.

On Thursday, Busch was ranked the No. 8 rookie in Major League Baseball by Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report. Reuter discussed Busch’s time with the Los Angeles Dodgers and pointed out good news for the Cubs — Busch is signed through the 2029 season.

“Busch crushed Triple-A pitching last season, but without a clear path to playing time on a stacked Dodgers roster he was deemed expendable and flipped to the Cubs in exchange for prospects Jackson Ferris and Zyhir Hope,” Reuter said.

“The 26-year-old has been the Cubs starting first baseman from the jump this year, and with club control through the 2029 season, he should be a staple in the middle of the North Siders lineup.”

Busch is one of the main reasons why Cubs fans are excited about the future. He’s very good already and still has a lot of room to grow before hitting his ceiling.

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