Source: Cubs calling up top lefty prospect Jordan Wicks
Wicks, 23, was 7-0 split between Double-A and Triple-A after being drafted in the first round (21st overall) in 2021. He has made 48 appearances in the minors, all as a starter.
The Cubs rank 25th in starter’s ERA since the All-Star break as they battle for a playoff spot in the National League. Lefty Drew Smyly has been sent back to the bullpen after some prolonged struggles as a starter, opening up a spot for Wicks. The team has a TBA starter listed for Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Wicks, who played college baseball at Kansas State, was ranked No. 51 to start the season on ESPN insider Kiley McDaniel’s top 100 prospects. Wicks’ best pitch is a changeup, which he deploys along with a fastball and slider.
The move will be official by Sunday morning when the team will need to open a roster spot for Wicks. The Cubs currently occupy the third wild-card position in the NL.