Scouting Report

Video scouting report »

Scouting grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 45 | Run: 55 | Arm: 55 | Field: 55 | Overall: 50

MVP Baseball Academy in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, has churned out a plethora of talent year after year. Cabada, who trains with Miguel Batista, is the standout performer from this year’s group, having long been on the prospect radar, with ample video of him as a youngster widely available. Evaluators are impressed by his dedication to the game and commitment to improvement in all facets.

Cabada sports a left-handed swing with significant bat speed that enables him to pepper a variety of offerings to all parts of the field. He starts from a slightly open stance before closing off with his front foot, and when the timing is right, he can really drive the ball. At present, it’s primarily doubles power, but that should continue to blossom as he fills out. 

An above-average runner who has powerful legs on his developing frame, Cabada is a threat on the basepaths as well as a smooth-moving defender up the middle. He has the arm strength to match, which portends for him seeing time at shortstop as he enters a farm system. There is legitimate five-tool talent present for Cabada, who could be a quick mover if his bat makes an immediate impact.

Scouting grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 45 | Run: 55 | Arm: 55 | Field: 50 | Overall: 45

The Cubs signed three Dominican infielders to seven-figure bonuses in January, with Cabada ($1.5 million) possessing more hitting ability than Wilfri De La Cruz ($2.3 million) and Juan Tomas ($1.1 million). He's also the most likely of the trio to move off shortstop as his career progresses.

Cabada has an advanced approach that belies his youth, using his quick left-handed swing to line balls all over the field. He manages the strike zone well and has a history of making contact in game action. The biggest question about his offensive game is how much power he'll squeeze out of his 5-foot-10 frame, though his ability to barrel balls should generate 15-20 homer pop once he gets stronger.

Cabada has solid speed and arm strength, but the Cubs have a logjam of legitimate shortstop prospects at the lower levels. He'll get some time at short but will likely wind up at second or third base, especially if he loses any quickness as he matures physically. Beyond his wide array of tools, he also earns praise for his work ethic and attention to detail.

Awards

DSL Mid-Season All-Star

Year	Team
2025

Transactions

Team	Date	Transaction
	07/20/2025	SS Juan Cabada assigned to DSL NL All-Stars.
	05/30/2025	SS Juan Cabada assigned to DSL Cubs Red.
	02/05/2025	SS Juan Cabada assigned to DSL Cubs Blue.
	01/15/2025	Chicago Cubs signed free agent SS Juan Cabada to a minor league contract.