Forgotten Cubs pitching prospect is finally delivering on his long-lost promise

When the Chicago Cubs acquired Caleb Kilian as part of their trade of Kris Bryant in 2021, the hope was that Kilian would ascend toward becoming a long-term fixture in the starting rotation. Instead, of recent top prospects, Kilian is arguably one of the biggest disappointments for the Cubs.

Kilian made his debut for the Cubs in 2022, making three starts but struggling to find his command. He gave up 13 runs on 11 hits and 15 walks in a tick over 11 innings of work. It forced the Cubs to go back to the drawing board and that included reimagining the role Kilian would have moving forward.

Instead of being the next arm to sit atop the starting rotation, the hope was that the Cubs could turn Kilian into an effective relief pitcher. The problem is that injuries and struggles with his command have always prevented him from having an extended runway in the majors with the Cubs.

The Cubs outrighted Kilian at the start of the 2025 season, and by the end of last year, it was clear that each side was ready for a clean break. Kilian returned to the organization that drafted him, and he has suddenly turned into an effective option out of the San Francisco Giants' bullpen.

Caleb Kilian is finally having the success that Cubs fans dreamt of

Entering the weekend, Kilian has an ERA of 1.13 through his first 15 appearances on the season. His success has quickly turned him into a high-leverage option for the Giants, and he recorded the first save of his career last week. Adding to the success that he's had, Kilian is striking out over 28% of the hitters he's faced this season.

The command concerns are still evident, walking over 12% of the hitters he's faced this year. There's also likely going to be some regression. Kilian currently has a 4.20 FIP, but it's hard to take issue with the success he's had.

No, there shouldn't be regret for the Cubs. They gave Kilian every opportunity to succeed. But in a season where the Cubs have been forced to use Corbin Martin and Gavin Hollowell in innings of consequence, it's hard not to think of what could've been for the former top pitching prospect in Chicago.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow