Top 3 Chicago Cubs pitching prospects that can make an impact in 2022

Chicago Cubs Potential Impact Pitching Prospects: #1 – RHP Ryan Jensen

The Cubs’ 15th-ranked prospect was one of the only times that Theo Epstein took a pitcher with a first-round pick, and it seems to be paying off thus far. Ryan Jensen had quite possibly the best fastball in the entire draft class, and his pitch mix of a high-velocity four-seamer, two-seamer, and slider late into games gives him a serious edge. The only concern is his ability to retain control later in the games, which gives him the option of becoming a closer if need be.

In the event that he is called up, he’ll probably be utilized in a similar fashion that we’ve seen left-hander Justin Steele used, coming out of the bullpen at first for longer relief roles to train his command, and then when he appears ready he is added to the rotation for a spot start.

Assuming the Cubs don’t sign another starting pitcher in free agency after the lockout, that fifth rotation spot is up for grabs by the younger arms. Steele and Alzolay are the clear two in contention for it at the moment, but after spring training, I believe Kilian and Jensen have a very real opportunity at becoming that fifth arm if David Ross decides to keep Alzolay in the bullpen and perhaps move Steele back after a bit of a rocky experience as a starting pitcher.