Chicago Cubs: Starting pitchers aplenty in the 2020 MLB Draft

Chicago Cubs: SP Mick Abel, Jesuit High School (OR)

The final guy on this list is just too freaking good to fall to the Cubs at sixteen. He is by far and away, in my opinion, the best prep arm in this entire draft class. Mick Abel is just 18 years old but carries a fastball that can reach into the mid-’90s.

A tall, lanky kid Abel reminds me of a young Chris Paddack. Not that Paddack is old or a veteran by any means, but the size of Abel and his delivery sway me in the direction for that comparison. The makeup of this kid is ridiculous. Per Carlos Collazo, from Baseball America, Abel reached 97 mph on his fastball at Perfect Game Nationals. He can sit on it between 93-95 mph.

Abel also has a sharp curveball, a good out pitch the teenager can continue to develop in his arsenal. His slider sits in the mid-’80’s and the changeup is starting to come around. His windup allows him a little stutter step, helping to drive his power. The nature of his windup and delivery are smooth, and for a teenager, Abel makes it look almost effortless.

Abel would be the perfect option for the Cubs. I understand trading up does not exist as the competitive balance is essential, so it is highly unlikely Chicago lands Abel. Conveniently, Abel does have a commitment to Oregon State University, so there is a chance he diverts to that path, which may allow the Cubs to take him next season, but again highly unlikely. Keep an eye on Abel this season.