3 Cubs prospects that deserve a second-half promotion

3 Cubs prospects that deserve a promotion - 2: Brandon Birdsell

After another dominant outing last night, Brandon Birdsell lowered his season ERA with High-A South Bend to a mere 2.55 in 70.2 innings now on the season. A fifth-round pick in 2022, Birdsell is one of many pitching prospects that look promising from last year's draft. After recording a 2.75 ERA in his final year in college, it's nice to see him put up better numbers at a more competitive level. Not a vast strikeout thrower, with 62 on the year, Birdsell limits free passes and hits with his impressive 1.090 WHIP.

Getting Birdsell to Double-A Tennessee may take time, but there's no reason for him not to make it up to the next level with the next round of promotions after the trade deadline. Being used as a starter, Birdsell owns a 1.55 ERA in July, with two quality starts already under his belt. If he keeps that up much longer, it will force the front office's hand to promote him to Tennessee.