Top 3 Chicago Cubs pitching prospects that can make an impact in 2022
![(Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images) (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fcubbiescrib-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fgetty-images-2F2018-2F08-2F816361284-850x560-724c0ed674954d1f4de81cd0a0bfe0de.jpg)
Chicago Cubs Potential Impact Pitching Prospects: #2 – RHP Ethan Roberts
Ethan Roberts was added to the 40-man roster along with Nelson Velazquez on November 19 to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft. He was drafted by the Cubs in the fourth round of the 2018 Draft and has not disappointed.
In 94 career MiLB games, Roberts has posted a 3.09 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, and has gone 17-for-24 in save opportunities. He has only been used as a reliever (which the Cubs are in pretty desperate need of if they wish to contend soon) and is currently in Triple-A Iowa. He has excelled at limiting the home run ball, a very important attribute in today’s game and even more important to succeeding in Wrigley Field.
Ethan Roberts, 9/14/21, versus two of AAA’s most dangerous hitters. 4 whiffs on fastballs. pic.twitter.com/WjsTT8ntNH
— Cubs Prospects - Bryan Smith (@cubprospects) November 18, 2021
The 24-year-old has the potential to be a set-up guy for the later innings, given some “higher-leverage” outings for experience during spring training.