Chicago Cubs: Five college players Cubs need on their draft radar

Feb 22, 2016; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon (70) talks to president of baseball operations Theo Epstein during spring training camp at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 22, 2016; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon (70) talks to president of baseball operations Theo Epstein during spring training camp at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
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Jul 12, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Baseball fans hold up stand up to cancer cards in the 2016 MLB All Star Game at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 12, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Baseball fans hold up stand up to cancer cards in the 2016 MLB All Star Game at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Brendan McKay, 1B/LHP, Louisville

Both Theo Epstein and skipper Joe Maddon have made much ado about their utility players. if they are looking to continue this trend on the North Side, Brendan McKay is a great draft pick. He adds versatility that few players can imagine.

This sophomore from Darlington, Pennsylvania, is one of the most decorated  players in college baseball, including winning the John Olerud two-way player of the year award in 2016. He’s also won NCBWA Pitcher of the Month (February 2016), 2016 Third Team All-American honors, and 2016 Perfect Game All-American honors.

The Cubs love pitchers who rake. Last year, McKay hit .333 with 16 doubles and 41 RBIs. During Louisvilles’ stint in the NCAA Super Regionals, McKay went 2-for-4 with a home run and three RBI in three games.

On the mound, he recorded a 2-1 record and a 1.35 ERA with 10 strikeouts in 13 1/3 innings for the USA Collegiate National Team.

McKay was drafted by the Padres in 2014 out of high school.

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