OVERVIEW
SYSTEM STRENGTHS
–NEAR-READY PITCHING
Despite a deep and star-studded rotation at the Major League level, the current strength of this system is the quantity of high-floor, near-ready arms in the “On the Horizon” group. Eight of our 15 ranked prospects are pitchers who could contribute in the next few years. The Cubs have an enviable amount of upper-level arms, giving them a few cost-controlled depth options or potential trade chips in seasons to come.
–STRONG UP THE MIDDLE
Chicago has had success targeting up-the-middle athletes and figuring out their long-term defensive homes later. That philosophy still is visible in the system now, as pitching and center-diamond defenders make up the ranked portion of this list.
SYSTEM WEAKNESSES
–LACKS A TOP-50 PROSPECT
While we’re bullish on (#1) Miguel Amaya and (#2) Nico Hoerner—both players factoring into our upcoming Top 125—neither has the upper-minors track record to crack the highest tier of the list, at least for now. (#3) Brailyn Marquez could be another Top 125 prospect in the system once he’s established in full-season ball. The Cubs do a good job consistently finding big leaguers, even if there isn’t a top-of-the-minors blue-chipper currently on hand. The bulk of Chicago’s best prospects project as solid contributors, though the potential impact drops off past the top three.
TOP 15 PREF LIST
| Rank | Name | Position | Ceiling | Risk | ETA |
| 1 | Miguel Amaya | C | 55 | High | 2022 |
| 2 | Nico Hoerner | SS/2B | 55 | High | 2020 |
| 3 | Brailyn Marquez | LHP | 55 | Extreme | 2022 |
| 4 | Adbert Alzolay | RHP | 50 | High | 2019 |
| 5 | Aramis Ademan | SS | 50 | High | 2021 |
| 6 | Justin Steele | LHP | 50 | High | 2020 |
| 7 | Brennen Davis | OF | 50 | Extreme | 2023 |
| 8 | Cole Roederer | OF | 50 | Extreme | 2023 |
| 9 | Alex Lange | RHP | 45 | High | 2020 |
| 10 | Zack Short | SS | 45 | High | 2020 |
| 11 | Cory Abbott | RHP | 45 | High | 2020 |
| 12 | Thomas Hatch | RHP | 45 | High | 2020 |
| 13 | Duane Underwood | RHP | 45 | High | 2018 |
| 14 | Tyson Miller | RHP | 45 | High | 2020 |
| 15 | Keegan Thompson | RHP | 45 | High | 2020 |
CREAM OF THE CROP
(#1) Miguel Amaya, C
Ceiling: 55 Risk: High ETA: 2022 Role Description: Above-Average Player
Ht/Wt: 6’1” / 185 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: A Age (as of April 1, 2019): 20y, 0m
Video | Spotlight
Amaya signed with the Cubs for $1.25M in 2015, moving quickly through the system for a catching prospect since. He got off to a torrid start in his first taste of full-season ball last year, slashing .288/.365/.500 through the all-star break before cooling off in the second-half. 2018 was easily Amaya’s longest as a pro, and knowing that, we aren’t thrown by his tiring out later in the year. He’s one of baseball’s best catching prospects, a potential plus offensive producer for the position with above-average defensive tools. His muscular build is well-suited for the rigors of catching, with soft hands and a good sense of how to frame pitches. His pop times are regularly in the 1.91 to 1.97 range, showing at least a 55-grade throwing arm down to 2B. Amaya’s physical strength translates to advanced raw power for his age, and he’s capable of getting to it in games. He’ll get a bit swing-happy against soft-stuff at times like many young hitters, but Amaya’s sense of the zone, swing-path, and power potential give reason to foresee a playable hit tool with 16-20 home run upside. That’s more than enough for a FV 55 ceiling when you consider his defensive ability at a valuable position.
(#2) Nico Hoerner, SS/2B
Ceiling: 55 Risk: High ETA: 2020 Role Description: Above-Average Player
Ht/Wt: 6’1” / 200 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: A Age (as of April 1, 2019): 21y, 10m
Video #1 | Video #2 | Video #3 | Report
An injury limited Hoerner to just 14 games last summer in his pro debut after the Cubs took him 24th overall from Stanford. He went to Fall League to make up for lost time and was impressive there against more experienced competition, slashing .337/.362/.506. Hoerner’s best attribute is his feel at the plate, as a smooth stroke with impressive barrel control provides the foundation for a potential plus hit tool and surprising power potential. Defensively, his instincts play up an average skill set at shortstop, though there’s still a chance Hoerner ultimately winds up at 2B. He would be an above-average defender at the keystone, however, and his offensive upside gives the chance to be a valuable contributor in either scenario. As he showed in Fall League, Hoerner is extremely polished and could move quickly.
ON THE HORIZON
(#4) Adbert Alzolay, RHP
Ceiling: 50 Risk: High ETA: 2019 Role Description: League Average Starter (#4/#5 SP)
Ht/Wt: 6’0” / 179 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: AAA Age (as of April 1, 2019): 24y, 1m
Video
Alzolay signed for just $10K in 2012, slowly blooming into one of the best pitching prospects in the organization. He likely would have debuted in the big leagues last season had a lat injury not ended his year after eight Triple-A starts. Alzolay has the upside of a solid #4 starter despite less-than-ideal size for a righty. His above-average fastball sits in the mid-90s and tops out at 97 mph, backed by a quality low-80s curve that induces swinging strikes. He’ll need to improve his changeup to keep lefties in check back through lineups at the Major League level. If arsenal depth or durability becomes an issue, Alzolay’s stuff could translate quickly to a high-leverage ‘pen role.
(#6) Justin Steele, LHP
Ceiling: 50 Risk: High ETA: 2020 Role Description: League Average Starter (#4/#5 SP)
Ht/Wt: 6’2” / 195 lbs. B/T: L/L Highest Level: AA Age (as of April 1, 2019): 23y, 8m
Video | Spotlight
Steele was in the midst of a breakout 2017 campaign before going down with Tommy John surgery late that year. He made a very quick return from the procedure in 2018 and was sharp across 11 starts, finishing last season in Double-A. Steele touched 96 mph before the injury and worked in the low-90s last year, and there’s reason to believe he’ll ultimately regain his former velocity as he builds back mound time. His upper-70s curveball has 55-grade potential, a sharp pitch with 2-to-7 shape that baffles same-side bats. Steele’s changeup is less advanced than his other two offerings but still projects to finish average. He profiles as a solid #4 starter and could surface in the big leagues fairly soon.
(#9) Alex Lange, RHP
Ceiling: 45 Risk: High ETA: 2020 Role Description: Swingman
Ht/Wt: 6’3” / 200 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: A+ Age (as of April 1, 2019): 23y, 6m
Video #1 | Video #2 | Report
Lange was the 30th pick in 2017 after a decorated college career at LSU. His fastball has backed up a bit in pro ball, but he’s also showing signs of being a far likelier bet to remain a starter. After regularly cracking 95 mph as an amateur, Lange’s heater worked in the low-90s last season with lively armside run. His hard curveball still flashes above-average potential, and a low-80s changeup made serious progress as well. His best-case ceiling is a back-rotation starter, though it’s interesting to imagine the raw stuff he showed in college coming back in a setup or multi-inning relief role.
(#10) Zack Short, SS
Ceiling: 45 Risk: High ETA: 2020 Role Description: Role Player
Ht/Wt: 5’10” / 175 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: AA Age (as of April 1, 2019): 23y, 10m
Video
Short was the Cubs’ 17th round pick in 2016 from Sacred Heart University. He has established himself as a legitimate prospect in pro ball, showing an interesting toolset last season in the Southern League. An athletic, twitchy 5-foot-10, Short has surprising explosion in his frame that shows up on both sides of the ball. He’s an above-average defender at shortstop with more home run power than you’re expecting. His approach is that of a larger player, completely centered around working counts for a pitch to drive. Short’s .227/.356/.417 line in Double-A underlines his offensive profile: a high-walk, high-strikeout, three-true-outcomes hitter that will get to his power at the expense of contact. Paired with his speed and defense, that creates the foundation for a solid role player.
(#11) Cory Abbott, RHP
Ceiling: 45 Risk: High ETA: 2020 Role Description: Swingman
Ht/Wt: 6’2” / 210 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: A+ Age (as of April 1, 2019): 23y, 6m
The 67th overall pick in 2017 from Loyola Marymount University, Abbott’s polish allowed him to breeze through A-Ball last year, pitching in both Low-A and High-A. He’s a burly 6-foot-2, able to pound the zone with his fastball given a repeatable, low-maintenance delivery. Abbott mixes looks at his heater with veteran’s feel, showing a sinker, cutter, and four-seamer. He throws both a curve and slider, both of which project as 50-grade pitches. What’s most notable is his command, as Abbot not only throws lots of strikes but frequently dots the lower-third. Chicago has a number of pitching prospects that project as #6/#7 type spot-starters, and while Abbot is graded there for now, his durable frame and command give him a better chance than some others of finishing a true back-rotation option. Abbot is advanced enough to potentially be ready to contribute by the end of 2020 at soonest.
(#12) Thomas Hatch, RHP
Ceiling: 45 Risk: High ETA: 2020 Role Description: Swingman
Ht/Wt: 6’1” / 190 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: AA Age (as of April 1, 2019): 24y, 6m
Video | Report
The Cubs selected Hatch in the third round in 2016, the team’s first pick that year. He has moved steadily through the system and spent all of last season in Double-A. Hatch has the stuff to be a back-rotation starter but will need to cut his walks down to avoid moving to the ‘pen. His heavy fastball sits 92-to-94 mph and touches a bit better, backed up by a sharp slider in the low-80s. He mixes a workable changeup to lefties, a usable offering to round out the arsenal. Hatch could reach the big leagues in 2019 if the Cubs want to fast-track him as a reliever, but presuming he’s developed in the rotation—and considering Chicago’s veteran starting staff—it’s more likely he debuts in 2020.
(#13) Duane Underwood Jr., RHP
Ceiling: 45 Risk: High ETA: 2018 Role Description: Setup Relief
Ht/Wt: 6’2” / 210 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: MLB Age (as of April 1, 2019): 24y, 8m
Chicago’s second-rounder in 2012 from a Georgia high school, Underwood made his big league debut last year in a spot-start. While his control and pitchability have slowly progressed in the rotation, Underwood’s age and plus stuff might merit a move to a relief role. The Cubs were already thinking the same way, putting in him the ‘pen during the last few weeks of 2018 in Triple-A. Underwood’s fastball sits 94-to-96 mph, backed up by a tight high-70s curveball and sharp-fading changeup that plays as a weapon to lefties. He has the pitch mix to profile as a 7th/8th inning reliever if he takes to the late innings.
(#14) Tyson Miller, RHP
Ceiling: 45 Risk: High ETA: 2020 Role Description: Swingman
Ht/Wt: 6’5” / 200 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: A+ Age (as of April 1, 2019): 23y, 8m
Video | Report
A fourth-round pick from a small college in 2016, Miller made great strides last year in the Carolina League. He pitched to a 3.54 ERA across 23 starts for Myrtle Beach, holding opponents to a .219 average-against and posting enthusing strikeout/walk peripherals. Miller’s durability and strikethrowing are his best attributes, profiling as a low-end #5 starter or swingman type that moves between long relief and the back of a rotation. The fastball sits in the low-90s, scraping 94 mph at best, with advanced control and different variants (four-seamer, occasional short cutter). A mid-80s slider is at least a playable pitch, if not a bit more, depending on how much two-plane depth he can get on it. Miller’s 82-to-86 mph changeup is the third pitch, projecting to be workable enough to use as a wrinkle.
(#15) Keegan Thompson, RHP
Ceiling: 45 Risk: High ETA: 2020 Role Description: Swingman
Ht/Wt: 6’0” / 193 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: AA Age (as of April 1, 2019): 24y, 0m
Video #1 | Video #2 | Report
The Cubs’ third-rounder in 2017, Thompson’s polish allowed him to reach Double-A by the end of his first full pro season. Like many college starters, his stuff has backed up a tick moving to an every-fifth-day schedule. He now looks like a #5/swingman type who throws strikes with a deep mix of 45/50-grade pitches. The fastball sits in the low-90s with sink, backed up by an average curve and decent slider and changeup. He doesn’t have a super high ceiling bu could move quickly.
Alec Mills, RHP
Ceiling: 40 Risk: Moderate ETA: 2016 Role Description: Long Relief
Ht/Wt: 6’4” / 190 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: MLB Age (as of April 1, 2019): 27y, 4m
Mills made his Major League debut in 2016 with the Royals, who then DFA’d him after that season. He was subsequently traded to Chicago, who parted with prospect Donnie Dewees for the righty. Mills pitched seven games for the Cubs last year, and while he doesn’t have the stuff for a rotation role, he commands his pitches well enough to compete for a long relief spot. His fastball works between 88 and 91 mph, able to land a curve, slider, and changeup for strikes. There isn’t much upside here, but Mills reliable profile and remaining Minor League option makes him likely to be in Chicago’s 2019 big league mix in an up/down capacity.
James Norwood, RHP
Ceiling: 40 Risk: Moderate ETA: 2018 Role Description: Middle Relief
Ht/Wt: 6’2” / 215 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: MLB Age (as of April 1, 2019): 25y, 3m
Video | Spotlight
Norwood made his big league debut last year, appearing in 11 games for the Cubs out of the ‘pen after shuttling between Double-A and Triple-A in 2018. His fastball reaches the upper-90s and sits in the 95-to-96 mph range. He pitches aggressively off the fastball, using a hard splitter as the go-to secondary pitch and mixing a workable slider. Norwood is a ready-now middle relief piece with the power stuff to carve out a ‘pen role.
Dakota Mekkes, RHP
Ceiling: 40 Risk: High ETA: 2019 Role Description: Middle Relief
Ht/Wt: 6’7” / 250 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: AAA Age (as of April 1, 2019): 24y, 4m
Despite fairly pedestrian stuff, Mekkes has succeeded at every level as a pro and zoomed to Triple-A just two years after being drafted from Michigan State. His 6-foot-7 frame, delivery deception, and unique extension/spin profile combine to induce swinging strkes on an “invsiball” fastball, even without traditional plus velocity. Mekkes ranges from 87 to 94 mph on his heaters, mixing a hard-running sinker with a riding four-seam fastball. He’s in big league Spring Training as a non-roster invitee and could debut next season in a middle relief or longman role.
Oscar De La Cruz, RHP
Ceiling: 45 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2020 Role Description: Setup Relief
Ht/Wt: 6’4” / 200 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: AA Age (as of April 1, 2019): 24y, 0m
De La Cruz looked like a rising star in this system as recently as two years ago, though injury issues and a PED suspension have clouded his prospect outlook since. He’ll miss the start of 2019 after testing positive for a masking agent and is a candidate to transition to the ‘pen upon returning. An extra-large frame that’s broader than his 200-pound listing, De La Cruz can reach the high-90s on his fastball. His velocity dipped to the 91-to-92 mph range at times last year but could return when airing it out in short stints. De La Cruz’ curveball flashes sharp action and two-plane depth, though it backs up on him when his three-quarters slot drops under the ball. He’ll flash a changeup with late dive at times, but a high-maintenance delivery likely prevents it from being more than a chase pitch. De La Cruz has the raw stuff to pitch leverage innings but comes with lots of question marks. He could move quickly if the Cubs do move him to the ‘pen and he takes to that role.
Trent Giambrone, 2B
Ceiling: 40 Risk: High ETA: 2020 Role Description: Bench Player
Ht/Wt: 5’8” / 175 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: AA Age (as of April 1, 2019): 25y, 3m
Video #1 | Video #2
A 25th round pick in 2016, Giambrone has turned himself into a prospect since turning pro. He slashed .251/.333/.440 with 17 home runs in the Southern League, contnuing to mash upon being assigned to Fall League after the season. Giambrone has sneaky power for a small-framed player and hits with a slugger’s mentality, working for a fastball and not afraid to get deep in a count. This approach projects to rack up both walks and strikeouts, though considering the accompanying power, it’s an interesting offensive profile given Giambrone’s versatility. He’s best at 2B over long stretches but can suit up all over the field, able to play SS, 3B, and both outfield corners.
Jhonny Pereda, C
Ceiling: 40 Risk: High ETA: 2020 Role Description: Bench Player
Ht/Wt: 6’1” / 170 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: A+ Age (as of April 1, 2019): 22y, 11m
Video | Report
Pereda is coming off his strongest offensive season as a pro in High-A, though he doesn’t project as enough of an offensive threat to fit a regular’s profile. He’s a glove-first catcher with the defensive value to potentially fill a bench role. Pereda is mobile behind the plate, blocking well and able to pop out of the crouch quickly. His actual receiving is fringy, but the actions at catcher are sound enough to project it up to average. Pereda’s best defensive attribute is a 60-grade throwing arm, a cannon with strong lines and carry down to 2B. If not a true second-stringer, Pereda projects to be solid upper-minors depth at the very least. This type of catching prospect doesn’t have a high ceiling but tends to hang around a long time.
PURE PROJECTION
(#3) Brailyn Marquez, LHP
Ceiling: 55 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2022 Role Description: Above-Average Starter (#3 SP)
Ht/Wt: 6’4” / 185 lbs. B/T: L/L Highest Level: SS-A Age (as of April 1, 2019): 20y, 2m
Video | Spotlight | Report
Marquez signed with the Cubs for $600K in 2015. He started last year in Extended Spring Training before a velocity jump and subsequent breakout at Short-Season Eugene pushed him near the top of this list. Marquez was working 89-to-93 mph on the backfields before shipping out to the Northwest League, but once he got there, the fastball ticked up to the 93-to-97 mph range. The timing in his delivery will need to be adjusted in order to improve control and command, but his arm works extremely fluidly through a three-quarters slot. His changeup flashes above-average potential, and though we saw his slider a bit inconsistent from outing-to-outing in 2018, it also projects to at least average. He’s raw, but we’re high on Marquez’ potential and see the ingredients of a power mid-rotation lefty.
(#5) Aramis Ademan, SS
Ceiling: 50 Risk: High ETA: 2021 Role Description: Everyday Player
Ht/Wt: 5’11” / 160 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: A+ Age (as of April 1, 2019): 20y, 6m
Video #1 | Video #2 | Spotlight
One of the highest-profile amateurs in the 2015 international class, Ademan signed with the Cubs for a $2 million amateur bonus. He struggled against older competition last year in High-A, though Ademan’s tools stood out above his pedestrian numbers. He’s a very instinctive player, and that shows up most on defense. Ademan plays an above-average shortstop and projects as a 60-grade defender at a premium position. He’s very light on his feet ranging to both sides, with soft hands and a lightning-fast transfer that plays up an already above-average throwing arm. Ademan is still growing into his body, and that lack of strength was behind his offensive woes last year more than a lack of hitting ability. It’s a short, simple swing with signs of batspeed, hinting he could develop a playable hit tool as he fills out. There won’t ever be much power, but considering the defensive value, Ademan will just need to be a competent hit/on-base producer to be a regular. His ceiling is an everyday shortstop with projection on the bat. His defensive ability will get him to the big leagues even if the offense doesn’t come on like we think it can.
(#7) Brennen Davis, OF
Ceiling: 50 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2023 Role Description: Everyday Player
Ht/Wt: 6’4” / 175 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: R Age (as of April 1, 2019): 19y, 6m
Davis was a two-sport star (basketball and baseball) as an Arizona high schooler, and that athleticism shows up on the diamond. He signed for $1.1 million as the 62nd overall pick last year, showing a high-ceiling mix of size, speed, and power in the AZL. His frame and tools are in the Aaron Altherr or Michael A. Taylor mold: a rangy center-diamond athlete with 20/20 potential that’s accompanied by hit tool questions. Davis has big raw power that will only come on more as he fills out a 6-foot-4 frame and spends more time fully focused on baseball. The length of his swing and general feel at the plate still needs reps, and the most likely outcome for this type of prospect is usually a lower-average, high-power producer that always comes with some whiffs. Despite his height, the speed and mobility are here to remain in CF. Davis covers plenty of ground with long strides, projecting to impact the game defensively. He’s a high-variance prospect with the raw tools to jump into the FV 55 tier if everything comes together.
(#8) Cole Roederer, OF
Ceiling: 50 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2023 Role Description: Everyday Player
Ht/Wt: 6’0” / 175 lbs. B/T: L/L Highest Level: R Age (as of April 1, 2019): 19y, 6m
Roederer’s strong UCLA commitment scared off some teams as a high school senior, but the Cubs’ decision to stay on him seems wise after a strong pro debut. Roederer signed for $1.2 million as the 77th overall pick in last year’s draft, slashing .275/.354/.465 with enthusing peripherals and contact numbers in the AZL. He’s a compact, muscular 6-footer with intriguing power potential. His hands work in a tight loop through the swing, already able to lift with authority to the pullside. He shows a plan at the plate, aware of the zone with the hitting feel to draw fastballs to drive. He has the moxie to steal bases, displaying a good understanding of when to take a base. Defensively, he’s currently a CF whose instincts and positioning play up adequate straight line speed for the position. There’s some chance Roederer moves down the defensive spectrum, but his bat is much more valuable—and far more likely to avoid potential “tweener” status—if he’s able to stay up the middle. Roederer’s polished and well-rounded game could move to full-season ball quickly. His ceiling is an everyday outfielder that can do a bit of everything.
Yovanny Cruz, RHP
Ceiling: 45 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2022 Role Description: Swingman
Ht/Wt: 6’1” / 190 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: SS-A Age (as of April 1, 2019): 19y, 7m
Cruz signed for just $60K in 2016, and that looks like an absolute steal two years afterwards. He was excellent in the AZL and made his last start of the year in the Northwest League, an impressive scoreless five-inning outing. Cruz looks taller than 6-foot-1 because of long, spindly limbs. He’s extremely athletic and projectable, able to throw advanced strikes for a teenager from a clean delivery. The fastball sits 92-to-94 mph, and it’s easy to see Cruz adding a few more ticks of velocity as he fills out. His go-to secondary pitch is a changeup, though a three-quarters breaking ball also flashes signs of turning into an average future offering. Cruz is a breakout candidate in 2019 who will move up this list with a strong showing in full-season ball.
Richard Gallardo, RHP
Ceiling: 45 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2024 Role Description: Swingman
Ht/Wt: 6’1” / 187 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: DNP Age (as of April 1, 2019): 17y, 6m
The Venezuelan righty was considered the consensus top arm on this summer’s international market, signing with the Cubs for $1 million. His 6-foot-1 and 190-pound frame is physically advanced, already fairly mature but athletic and strong. The fastball works between 90-to-94 mph with more control than most pitching prospects this age. Gallardo’s curveball flashes sharp down action, and both pitches have the chance to finish plus in time. He has some feel for a changeup and should be able to keep developing it as a third offering. The fact that Gallardo is already in the FV 45 tier as a 17-year-old with no pro experience is a testament to his long-term upside. He has every chance to continue moving up this list as he climbs through the system.
Riley Thompson, RHP
Ceiling: 45 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2022 Role Description: Swingman
Ht/Wt: 6’3” / 205 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: SS-A Age (as of April 1, 2019): 22y, 8m
Video #1 | Video #2
Thompson drew interest from pro scouts as a high school senior but hurt his elbow two weeks before the draft. He ultimately required Tommy John surgery, honoring his Louisville commitment and redshirting his true freshman season. Thompson always flashed intriguing stuff but had an up-and-down college career, so his strong pro debut was a pleasant surprise. He pitched to a 2.84 ERA with as many strikeouts (25) as innings pitched (25.1) last summer in the Northwest League, displaying two potentially above-average pitches. His fastball sits in the mid-90s, touching 98 mph at best. There’s some rigidity to his delivery that impacts the in-zone command, though his plus velocity gives him some flexibility as to where his fastball finishes over the plate. Thompson’s best secondary pitch is a hard curveball, a big 12-to-6 downer that gets swinging strikes at its best. He will have to clean up some parts of his mechanics and develop a crude changeup in order to remain a starter at higher levels. The fastball/curveball combo would be impactful in a ‘pen role if durability or arsenal depth becomes a concern.
Reivaj Garcia, 2B
Ceiling: 45 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2023 Role Description: Role Player
Ht/Wt: 5’11” / 175 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: R Age (as of April 1, 2019): 17y, 6m
The Cubs purchased Garcia’s contract rights from a Mexican League club for $500K in 2017. He was the youngest player to appear in an official Minor League game stateside last year, only turning 17-years-old midway through the AZL season. He stands out for his unique blend of youth and barrel-feel, having slashed .302/.362/.355 against much older competition. The switch-hitter makes consistent contact from both sides, showing a short swing that projects to add more power as he gets stronger. Garcia’s current defensive tools profile better at 2B than SS. He’s still likely at least a year away from full-season ball but will be interesting to watch develop at the complex level.
Jeremiah Estrada, RHP
Ceiling: 45 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2022 Role Description: Swingman
Ht/Wt: 6’1” / 185 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: R Age (as of April 1, 2019): 20y, 5m
Video | Video
Estrada signed for $1 million from the prep ranks in 2017. He pitched briefly in the AZL that summer, though an injury kept him from official games last year. Scouts got a look at him during Extended Spring Training, where a tailing fastball sat in the 92-to-93 mph range. Both a curveball and changeup show potential to develop into workable pitches. We’ll get a better feel for how Estrada has grown as a prospect since turning pro by seeing him in regular game action in 2019.
Nelson Velazquez, OF
Ceiling: 45 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2022 Role Description: Role Player
Ht/Wt: 6’0” / 190 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: A Age (as of April 1, 2019): 20y, 3m
Video
Velazquez was Chicago’s fifth-round pick in 2017 from a high school in Puerto Rico. He’s the type of prospect that excels in a workout setting, loaded with raw tools but lacking the present polish to translate them into game performance. The Cubs assigned him aggressively to the Midwest League to begin 2018, and he struggled mightily there before being moved back to Extended Spring Training. He fared better in the Northwest League once Short-Season ball got going, showing glimpses of his speed/power toolset by posting a .208 ISO with 12 steals. Velazquez has above-average raw power in BP, though his present hit tool grades near the bottom of the scale. He struck out in more than 30-percent of plate appearances in 2018 and has little feel for the zone or ID’ing off-speed stuff. Defensively, Velazquez has played all three outfield spots but profiles best in RF, where his plus arm, power potential, and general physicality fit the positional mold. He’s a high-variance prospect who won’t have much value if he doesn’t refine at the plate, but will move higher up this list if he can.
Jose Albertos, RHP
Ceiling: 45 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2022 Role Description: Swingman
Ht/Wt: 6’1” / 185 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: A Age (as of April 1, 2019): 20y, 4m
Chicago purchased Albertos’ contract rights from a Mexican League club for $1.5 million in 2015. He looked like one of the more promising young arms in the system before a nightmarish 2018 season. Albertos had the yips last year and completely lost his control, requiring the Cubs to send him to Extended Spring Training and later the Northwest League to get back on track. That never happened, and the 20-year-old righty enters next season with a ton of question marks. His fastball has touched 97 mph in the past, backed up by a changeup and curveball that flash plus action. None of this will matter unless Albertos gets his control figured out. How he bounces back from 2018 will be one of the stories to watch in the Cubs’ system next year.
Richard Gallardo, RHP
Ceiling: 45 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2024 Role Description: Swingman
Ht/Wt: 6’1” / 187 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: DNP Age (as of April 1, 2019): 17y, 6m
The Venezuelan righty was considered the consensus top arm on this summer’s international market, signing with the Cubs for $1 million. His 6-foot-1 and 190-pound frame is physically advanced, already fairly mature but athletic and strong. The fastball works between 90-to-94 mph with more control than most pitching prospects this age. Gallardo’s curveball flashes sharp down action, and both pitches have the chance to finish plus in time. He has some feel for a changeup and should be able to keep developing it as a third offering. The fact that Gallardo is already in the FV 45 tier as a 17-year-old with no pro experience is a testament to his long-term upside. He has every chance to continue moving up this list as he climbs through the system.
Brendon Little, LHP
Ceiling: 40 Risk: High ETA: 2021 Role Description: Middle Relief
Ht/Wt: 6’1” / 195 lbs. B/T: L/L Highest Level: A Age (as of April 1, 2019): 22y, 7m
Video #1 | Video #2 | Report
Little barely got on the field as a freshman at the University of North Carolina, but pitched so well that summer on the Cape he started generating draft interest. He transferred to the junior college ranks in order to immediately become eligible, selected by the Cubs with the 27th overall pick in 2017. Little has had a bumpy start to his pro career and is yet to enjoy much statistical success. As an amateur, his fastball worked between 92 and 96 mph, now sitting in the 88-to-93 mph range starting games. His curveball still grades as his best offering, a shapely downer with low-80s velocity. Little’s changeup and overall command didn’t make tons of progress last year, hinting he might be destined for a ‘pen role. His stuff could tick back up there, however, and the breaking ball could play as a plus pitch.
Paul Richan, RHP
Ceiling: 40 Risk: High ETA: 2021 Role Description: Long Relief
Ht/Wt: 6’2” / 200 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: SS-A Age (as of April 1, 2019): 22y, 0m
Richan signed for an under-slot bonus as the 78th overall pick in 2018. Considered a polished, high-floor college righty going into the draft, Richan lived up to his billing during his pro debut last summer. He breezed through the Northwest League, looking advanced enough to move to Double-A fairly quickly in the future. He commands a low-90s fastball well, able to throw strikes with four pitches. Richan’s best off-speed is a low-80s slider, and he’ll mix a workable changeup and curve as well. None of his offerings grade above-average, but his strikethrowing and pitchability could get him to the big leagues in a long relief role.
D.J. Wilson, OF
Ceiling: 40 Risk: High ETA: 2021 Role Description: Bench Player
Ht/Wt: 5’8” / 177 lbs. B/T: L/L Highest Level: A+ Age (as of April 1, 2019): 22y, 5m
Video #1 | Video #2 | Video #3 | Report
The Cubs went over-slot to sign Wilson from the prep ranks in 2015, though his offensive game has not developed as hoped. He’s still a plus athlete with impact defensive ability in CF, ranging easily to both sides and possessing a penchant for the highlight-reel play. Wilson has yet to hit above .230 in full-season ball and doesn’t offer much power, so it’s unlikely there’s enough bat to fit a consequential big league profile unless he really turns a corner at the plate. His speed and defense still give the chance to reach the show as a glove-first bench outfielder.
Erich Uelmen, RHP
Ceiling: 40 Risk: High ETA: 2021 Role Description: Middle Relief
Ht/Wt: 6’3” / 185 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: A+ Age (as of April 1, 2019): 22y, 10m
Video | Report
Uelmen was the team’s fourth-rounder in 2017 from the college ranks. He spent last year between A-Ball levels, moving up from South Bend to pitch 33 innings in the Carolina League at season’s end. His stuff mix is fairly generic as a starter but could play more impactfully in short-stints. Uelmen’s low-90s fastball touches 94 mph, hinting there’s a tick more velo if he’s airing it out. His slider and changeup grade as average-at-best offerings, giving some chance to fit a middle relief profile.
Christopher Morel, SS/3B
Ceiling: 40 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2023 Role Description: Bench Player
Ht/Wt: 6’0” / 140 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: SS-A Age (as of April 1, 2019): 19y, 9m
Morel signed with the Cubs for $800K from the Dominican. He was initially assigned to Short-Season Eugene in the Northwest League last year but struggled mightily at the level. Bumped back down to the AZL, Morel played a key role on the Cubs affiliate that made it to the league’s championship series. He looks larger than his listed 6-foot, 140-pound frame, due in part to his athletic and long-limbed body type. Morel’s quick-twitch build produces whippy batspeed and hip torque that provide more power potential than many players his size. Defensively, he has moved between SS and 3B but likely will keep growing and move off a center-diamond position. Morel is an interesting lottery ticket whose future defensive home will be dictated by how much more he fills out over the next few years.
Luis Verdugo, SS
Ceiling: 40 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2023 Role Description: Bench Player
Ht/Wt: 6’0” / 172 lbs. B/T: R/R Highest Level: R Age (as of April 1, 2019): 18y, 5m
Another Cubs prospect purchased from the Mexican League, the organization was confident enough in Verdugo’s polish to send him to the AZL last summer as a 17-year-old. He struggled at the plate but shined on defense, where most of his value is right now. Verdugo is a natural defender with plus actions and a knack for finishing plays. His glovework at a premium position places him on this list as the Cubs wait to see how the bat develops.
Josue Huma, SS
Ceiling: 40 Risk: Extreme ETA: 2023 Role Description: Bench Player
Ht/Wt: 6’1” / 175 lbs. B/T: S/R Highest Level: R Age (as of April 1, 2019): 19y, 0m
Video | Spotlight
Huma signed with Chicago for $140K in 2016, spending his first summer of pro ball in the DSL before making his stateside debut in the AZL this year. Huma’s best tools are on defense, where he plays an above-average shortstop already and could finish a 60-grade glove. He’s a natural defender with a feel to finish plays, light on his feet going both ways with soft hands and a quick transfer. His arm is above-average, and there’s ability to throw on the run and from different angles. The switch-hitting Huma requires much more projection at the plate, where he’s a contact hitter without much present power. He’s a much better hitting left-handed, showing better rhythm and a quicker bat through the zone. Huma’s defensive ability at a premium position makes him a prospect, but considering his age, proximity, and remaining offensive projection, he should be filed into the “lottery ticket” bin for now.
