A method for improving destage performance to a RAID array is disclosed. In one embodiment, such a method periodically scans a cache for first strides that are ready to be destaged to a RAID array. While scanning the cache, the method identifies second strides that are not currently ready to be destaged to the RAID array, but will likely be ready to be destaged during a subsequent scan of the cache. The method initiates preemptive staging of any missing data of the second strides from the RAID array into the cache in preparation for the subsequent scan. Upon occurrence of the subsequent scan, the method destages, from the cache, the second strides from the cache to the RAID array. A corresponding system and computer program product are also disclosed.