Cubs mock draft whispers could signal long-term plan beyond Dansby Swanson

Before the Chicago Cubs can reach the Major League Baseball Trade Deadline, the draft must first be completed. Despite recent rumors suggesting that the Cubs could soon make a trade for a starting pitcher, Jed Hoyer has long maintained that the shift of attention to the deadline usually does not happen until after the draft. The draft starts on July 13, and the Cubs hold the No.17 selection in the first round.

The Cubs have had recent success with their first-round selections. 2023 first-round pick Matt Shaw is currently the starting third baseman for the Cubs, and 2024 first-round pick Cam Smith was the centerpiece of the team's trade for Kyle Tucker in the offseason. The latest mock draft from Bleacher Report has the Cubs adding another infielder to their list of top prospects.

The selection for the Cubs was Arkansas shortstop Wehiwa Aloy. The same prospect Kiley McDaniel had the Cubs taking in his latest mock draft for ESPN. Aloy's defense projects favorably at the Major League level, with the expectation being that he will remain at shortstop. Aloy also has the power that could see him ascend quickly through a minor league system.

Cubs' Dansby Swanson succession plan might already be in motion

If nothing else, the selection of Aloy could see the Cubs beginning preparations for life after Dansby Swanson. When Swanson is on the tail end of his seven-year contract with the Cubs, it would seem likely that Aloy would be knocking on the door of being ready for the Major League level. Not to mention, Nico Hoerner is a free agent after 2026, so while the Cubs are currently set with their middle infielders, circumstances could change faster than fans realize.

While the Cubs have leaned toward quick ascenders like Shaw and Smith in recent seasons, it wouldn't be a complete shock if the Cubs target pitching with their first-round pick. If Gage Wood is available when the Cubs are on the clock, that could be the direction the front office takes, given the lack of top pitching prospects in their organization.

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