At just 3 years old, James Triantos made a memorable mark in his backyard in McLean, Va., when he hit a baseball through the window of his sister Katie’s second-floor room after his father, Jim, promised him ice cream if he could do so. That achievement foreshadowed Triantos’ future as a baseball standout. Today, he’s one of the top prospects in the Chicago Cubs organization, beginning the season with the Iowa Cubs, just one step away from the major leagues.
Mark Gjormand, Triantos’ high school coach, called him “the elephant on the block,” noting his work ethic and competitive nature. Triantos has always stood out for his discipline at the plate and aggressive baserunning, traits that were clear from a young age. His passion for baseball began early, spending weekends from age 4 hitting in the cages and playing at the park. His father even built a baseball field and indoor facility to keep him active, which later attracted Washington Nationals players during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Triantos was an early star in the making, stealing bases at 5 years old and showing an exceptional ability to avoid strikeouts, a rarity for young hitters. He even played with an old-school mindset, crowding the plate and daring pitchers to throw inside. His dad, a former pitcher, helped coach him, and there was a memorable moment when James proved his father wrong by hitting a double after telling him to stay quiet.
By 9 years old, Triantos caught the eye of his high school coach, and by the time he was in high school, his reputation continued to grow. He honed his skills further, notably working out with a pitcher who had baffled him with a wicked changeup, learning how to hit it better. His work ethic and determination were evident when he reclassified to graduate early and enter the 2021 draft, leading his high school team to a state championship season.
Triantos’ rise through the minors has been rapid, and his journey is a testament to his relentless drive to be the best.
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