Carter Trice: Banking on Versatility

When you mention the top players in the Chicago Cubs’ minor league system, the name Carter Trice may not be one of the ones that tumbles out. But the versatility of this 23-year-old’s game could end up forcing his name into the conversation.

Selected by the Cubs in the the 12th round of the 2023 draft, Trice has been an unconventional prospect from the very beginning. As an 18-year old for Old Dominion in 2021, Trice slugged 14 home runs and 54 RBI while slashing .355/.426/.632/1.059 in 58 games. He also 57 appearances at second base, while also seeing time at shortstop and third base.

Following up on his first season, Trice added 18 stolen bases to 17 round-trippers and a .288/.395/.606/1.001 line in 53 games. Moving to the outfield, Trice main played rightfield while also seeing time in left, second base, and third base.

Moving on to North Carolina State the following year, the then 20-year old found the sledding a bit tougher. Playing exclusively in the outfield, Trice batted .248/.348/.479/.827 in 41 games; with 6 homers, 7 stolen bases, and 19 RBI.

After being drafted by the Cubs, Trice was tried at catcher in the rookie league before moving to yet another position, first base. Trice also saw some time in the outfield and at third base. Splitting time between Mesa and Single-A Myrtle Beach, Trice continued to display both power and speed. In 82 games, Trice swatted 9 home runs and stole 8 bases. However, Trice could only manage a batting line of .228/.332/.423/.755.

Moving up to High-A South Bend this season, Trice continued to struggle with batting average, hitting only .198. On the other hand, Trice drew 55 walks in 73 games. That, to go along with 14 home runs and 22 stolen bases help earn him a late season call-up to Double-A Knoxville. While in South Bend, Trice played almost exclusively in centerfield. But in Double-A, Trice continued to move around; playing left and right as well as first base.

“Carter Trice has a valuable player for South Bend this season,” said team play-by-play broadcaster Brendan King. “He’s been very versatile and has led the team in home runs”.

On his multi-position ability, Trice commented “wherever the manager needs me. Wherever I’m needed in the line-up. There’s always room to improve everywhere on defense.”

But Trice seems to have a good handle on his strengths. “Hitting for power, home runs, extra-base hits, and taking my walks. Just a power-speed combo that I’m looking for.”

While Trice will have to continue to improve his contact rate, he has the multi-position ability and attitude to make him a player on the rise.