Which Chicago Cubs pitching prospect will be the next to debut?

Chicago Cubs: Cory Abbott, SP: Tennessee Smokies

Last but not least of this wily bunch is another one of the Double-A starters, Cory Abbott. Of this group, Abbott is a sleeper pick to be the next prospect up for the Cubs. While it may be another shot in the dark, Abbott is another starter who the Cubs should figure out what they have.

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Abbott was gifted to Chicago in the second round of the 2017 June Amateur Draft, having played three seasons for Loyola Marymount University.

Through those three seasons, Abbott posted a 2.69 ERA which he translated to the low levels of professional baseball having pitched to a 2.79 ERA in his first few seasons in the system.

Up through this point in the season, Abbott has made 12 starts for the Smokies. Consistency has been his game as he has a 3.39 ERA, a 3.40 FIP, and a 3.31 xFIP.

Similar to Miller, Abbott’s walk rate has decreased, moving from 9.2 percent in 2018 to 5.7 percent this season. The home runs have increased slightly, and Abbott has been super unlucky with his .323 BABIP, yet has managed to pitch well. Such production could prove valuable if Chicago needs an emergency spot start late this season.

Of course, Abbott is a long-shot to make a start for the Cubs in 2019. The Cubs currently reside at the top of the National League Central. If they’re able to create some separation and pull away, Abbott could be the guy the Cubs call on to see what they have. You never know what Theo Epstein’s crystal ball holds.