Chicago Cubs: Riley Thompson has the makings of a future ace

Chicago Cubs: Just a good ol’ boy

Born and raised in the Bluegrass State, Thompson attended high school at Christian Academy followed by the University of Louisville, where he played two seasons for the Cardinals. Out of high school, Thompson was a sought after arm. In fact, the Cincinnati Reds decided to take Thompson out of high school in the 37th round of the 2015 MLB Amateur player draft.

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Unfortunately, Thompson suffered an injury that required him to get Tommy John surgery the day before he was drafted. It led him to the University of Louisville, where he chose to stay close to home during his college days.

After red-shirting as a Freshman, Thompson returned his sophomore year. He saw action in 14 games, registering 15 2/3 innings, compiling a solid 4.02 ERA and a ridiculously impressive 13.21 K/9. The following year, his junior season, Thompson began to see work as a starter. During this time, he made seven starts for the Cardinals in 2018, compiling a 6.82 ERA in 33 innings worked.

Outside of the Reds in 2015, Thompson also received a call from the New York Yankees during the 2017 MLB Amateur player draft, where he was selected in the 25th round. Thompson opted not to sign, leading him to the Cubs this past season, where the club selected him in the 11th round, as the 338th overall player selected. From then on, Thompson was on a path to prove himself.