Beyond the Spotlight: Uncovering the Cubs' Hidden Gems in 2026
Earlier this year, Baseball America unveiled their highly anticipated Top 30 Cubs Prospects list for 2026, leaving fans buzzing with excitement. But what about the players who narrowly missed the cut? Those lurking just outside the spotlight, brimming with potential and waiting for their chance to shine? That's where the real intrigue begins.
We're diving deeper into the Cubs' farm system, unearthing 10 prospects who, while not household names yet, possess the talent and drive to make a significant impact. These are the players who could surprise us all with breakout seasons or carve out solid MLB careers. And this is the part most people miss – the hidden stories, the untapped potential, the future stars waiting to be discovered.
1. Ethan Flanagan, LHP: A 17th-round pick in 2023, Flanagan's journey has been marked by resilience. Two Tommy John surgeries haven't dampened his spirit. His 2025 debut in Low-A Myrtle Beach showcased his advanced pitchability and strike-throwing prowess. While his fastball sits in the 89-91 mph range, it's his ability to command a diverse arsenal – a low-80s changeup, a curveball in the low-to-mid 70s, and a slider in the low-to-mid 80s – that makes him intriguing. Can he overcome his below-average velocity and become a reliable starter?
2. Alexey Lumpuy, OF: Signed out of Cuba in 2023, Lumpuy is a raw talent with explosive athleticism. His 2025 season in Low-A Myrtle Beach revealed a tantalizing combination of plus raw power and above-average speed, resulting in 11 home runs and 30 stolen bases. However, his alarming strikeout rate (.209/.294/.364) raises concerns. Will he refine his swing and tap into his immense potential, or will his strikeouts prove to be his downfall?
3. Grant Kipp, RHP: An undrafted free agent from Yale, Kipp's journey has been one of perseverance. After three seasons of unremarkable performances, he exploded in 2025, posting a 4.22 ERA with 110 strikeouts in 108.2 innings for Double-A Knoxville. His secret weapon? A devastating low-to-mid 80s sweeper with elite spin rates exceeding 3,000 rpm. Is Kipp a late bloomer poised for a major league breakthrough?
4. Jack Neely, RHP: Acquired from the Yankees in 2024, Neely is a low-leverage reliever with a potent mid-80s slider boasting tight gyro spin. While his four-seam fastball (93-95 mph) has been susceptible to damage, his slider is a legitimate weapon. Can he refine his fastball command and become a more reliable bullpen arm?
5. Eli Lovich, OF: A high school draftee with a $650,000 signing bonus, Lovich struggled in his 2025 debut, hitting just .214/.285/.280 in Low-A. However, his encouraging exit velocity data and fringe-average plate skills hint at untapped potential. Will Lovich adjust to the rigors of professional baseball and live up to his lofty expectations?
6. Connor Noland, RHP: A ninth-round pick in 2022, Noland has been a model of consistency, exceeding 100 innings in each of his three professional seasons. His diverse pitch mix and above-average command make him a reliable depth starter. While he may not be a front-line starter, can Noland carve out a niche as a dependable long reliever or spot starter?
7. Kade Snell, OF: A fifth-round pick known for his bat, Snell struggled in his 2025 debut, hitting just .167/.268/.219 in High-A. However, his advanced plate discipline (13.6% zone-whiff rate, 22.1% chase rate) suggests bad luck played a role. Can Snell rebound and showcase the hitting prowess that made him a coveted draft pick?
8. Yahil Melendez, SS: A 2023 seventh-round pick from Puerto Rico, Melendez possesses plus raw power but struggles with bat-to-ball skills. His 2025 season in Low-A Myrtle Beach highlighted his potential, but he needs to reduce his strikeouts to unlock his offensive ceiling. Will Melendez refine his approach and become a legitimate power threat?
9. Brett Bateman, OF: A classic bench outfielder profile, Bateman excels defensively in center field and possesses a high on-base percentage. While he lacks power, his contact skills, baserunning ability, and versatility make him a valuable asset. Can Bateman secure a spot on the 40-man roster and contribute to the Cubs' major league depth?
10. Eli Jerzembeck, RHP: A former Top 250 draft prospect, Jerzembeck's career has been derailed by injuries, including Tommy John surgery and a stress fracture in his elbow. When healthy, he boasts a low-90s fastball and a high-spin breaking ball. If he can stay healthy, could Jerzembeck become a dominant force on the mound?
The Cubs' farm system is brimming with talent beyond the Top 30. Who do you think has the most potential to surprise us in 2026? Let us know in the comments below!
