Chicago Cubs: Team goes pitching heavy with first day draft selections

Brendon Little, LHP, State Junior College of Florida

27th overall

Brendon Little is 20 years old and has the experience of a college pitcher on his side. After spending one year at the University of North Carolina, Little transferred to the State Junior College of Florida. There, Little found success, as he posted a 2.53 ERA in 85 1/3 innings pitched this season. In addition to that, Little struck out 133 batters in just 15 starts, for an average of just under 8.9 strikeouts per start.

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Little works with a fastball that runs in the mid-90’s, but can be thrown up to 97 MPH. In addition to his above average fastball, Little also features an outstanding curveball.

Despite having two plus pitches, Little lacks a solid third pitch. He does have a change-up, but more work will be needed if Little hopes to use that pitch at the professional level.

With only two serviceable pitches, Little may need to make the transition to the bullpen. That change may not come right away with the Cubs, as they may want to see if he can find success as a starter.

Even though the Cubs need starting pitching, Little could become the go-to lefty out of the bullpen in a couple of years. With Mike Montgomery likely headed to the starting rotation at some point in the near future, Little could assume the role left by Montgomery. With his history of being a starter, Little could provide the Cubs with a lefty long man by 2020.