Chicago Cubs: Three low-level prospects to keep an eye on

Chicago Cubs: Chris Clarke, SP, Eugene Emeralds

The final of the three guys we are diving into is another selection from this year’s amateur draft. Chris Clarke is probably more well-known than either Bryant or Barry as a fourth-round pick, but he is still a potential gem for this organization.

Clarke is a product of the University of Southern California. While his first two years did not go too well, Clarke bounced back in a big way during the 2019 season, his last as a Trojan. Coming into his role as a reliever for the Trojans, Clarke posted a 1.03 ERA in 52 innings.

Of everyone who pitched in the system this year, Clarke was one of the best. He pitched in nine games, making eight starts. Across his 23 innings, Clarke finished with a stable 1.96 ERA, with a 3.17 FIP and 2.70 xFIP, respectively.

If that was not enough, Clarke carried a 28.3 percent strikeout rate and just a 4.4 percent walk rate. Opposing hitters batted just .230 against the big right-hander and could not muster much in the way of baserunners as Clarke’s WHIP was barely over 1.000.

Of the three, Clarke is probably the most exciting and has the highest likelihood of making it to the majors sooner than expected. He is just 20 years old and hopefully has a long career ahead of him. Fans should keep an eye on Clarke heading into 2020 and beyond.