3 minor league pitchers the Cubs need to get a look at down the stretch

2. Jack Neely

Ok, he's not on the 40-man, but a decision will have to be made about the newly acquired Neely this offseason so it couldn't hurt to get a look now if a spot opens up. He's already seen as big-league ready too, with a mid-to-upper 90s fastball that otherwise plays second fiddle to a devastating 70-grade slider. Those tools have helped him to a 2.81 ERA between Double-A Sommerset and Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre with 3.5 walks per nine and 13.6 strikeouts per nine in 41 2/3 innings. It also doesn't hurt that he stands at an intimidating 6'8" on the mound.

In Triple-A, Neely has only had one major hiccup in his appearances. His most recent outing saw him give up three runs on four hits with a home run to boot. Beyond that, his limited time at the highest level of the minors has been mostly clean thanks in part to limiting his walks more than similar young pitchers like Palencia. His slider also has a strong 47.1% whiff rate, offering a glimpse at the swing-and-miss potential.

The Cubs would likely want to give Neely a look for a bit in Triple-A, but a call-up down the stretch feels like a strong possibility and certainly should be considered. Jed Hoyer made the move with the remainder of 2024 and beyond in mind, and, even if he's not going to help in a playoff race, they can at least get a feel for what kind of role he could settle into in the 'pen or if he's truly ready.