2 unexpected Cubs prospects who could make their debuts this summer

One storyline of the Chicago Cubs' 2025 season, outside of them being one of the best teams in baseball, has been that this season has seen the talent at the top of the team's farm system begin to have success at the Major League level.

Matt Shaw, after a brief return to the minor-league level, has returned to being the Cubs' starting third baseman and has thrived. Cade Horton is making a strong case to remain in the Cubs' starting rotation, and even Moises Ballesteros got a glimpse of action at the Major League level.

If nothing else, it's a reminder that the Cubs will be reliant on their farm system to prop up their contention window. Sure, having Kyle Tucker, Seiya Suzuki, and Pete Crow-Armstrong in the middle of the lineup doesn't hurt matters, but the Cubs will need to depend on their prospects to continue the success they have already achieved this season.

Along those lines, there likely will be a prospect addition to the Major League roster who will have an unexpected impact on the season.

2 Cubs prospects who could be unsung additions to the roster

1. Jonathon Long, IF/OF

Before the Chicago Cubs added Justin Turner in Spring Training, there was some talk that Jonathon Long may play his way onto the Cubs' Opening Day roster. Long, drafted by the Cubs in 2023, has become the talk of the minor league system this season. Entering play on Tuesday, Long is slashing .344/.419/.561 with the Iowa Cubs to go along with 9 home runs and 41 RBI. What works in Long's favor, in terms of potentially finding his way to the Major League level this season, is that he can play both corner infield spots as well as in the outfield.

2. Riley Martin, LHP

As the Cubs continue to sift through options in their bullpen, it wouldn't be a complete surprise if the team turns to Riley Martin before the end of the season. With the Iowa Cubs this season, Martin has posted a 1.42 ERA through 17 appearances. The Cubs have been aggressive with their bullpen levers this season, and it seems inevitable that Martin will be one of those levers pulled before the end of the season.