The Chicago Cubs‘ minor-league system has recently seen a shift due to player graduations and trades, but several intriguing prospects remain just beyond the top 10. These five players, ranked #11 through #15, showcase depth and potential across various levels and roles within the organization.
Steady and Versatile: Will Sanders’ Approach at Triple-A
Will Sanders, currently pitching in Triple-A, may not generate headlines with overpowering stuff or an abundance of strikeouts, but his consistent pitchability earns him the #15 spot in the Cubs’ prospect rankings. Fastballs in the low 90s occasionally touching 97 mph combine with a mix of off-speed pitches, such as a splitter, slider, and curveball, to form a diverse arsenal. Despite some below-average fastball movement, Sanders’ ability to throw multiple pitches effectively evokes comparisons to Colin Rea, a pitcher revered for his craftiness rather than raw velocity.
Like Rea, Sanders is expected to carve his niche through a mix of roles, shifting between long relief and spot starts. This adaptability can be crucial over a long major-league season, especially when injuries and fatigue thin pitching staffs. Cubs fans witnessed the value of such pitchers when Rea frequently steadied the rotation down the stretch. If Sanders continues to refine his repertoire and maintain durability, he has the potential to contribute meaningfully to the Cubs’ pitching depth in the years ahead.
Raw Talent with Potential: Kaleb Wing’s High Ceiling
Kaleb Wing represents a more traditional high-upside college arm, a contrast to recent Cubs drafts. This lanky right-hander from Scotts Valley High School boasts an advanced fastball velocity sitting between 90-92 mph, peaking at 94-96 mph, and brings pedigree through his father, a former White Sox organization pitcher. The Cubs invested a $1.5 million signing bonus on Wing, signaling strong belief in his future potential.
Although Wing has yet to make his professional debut, expectations are he will begin his journey with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans in 2026. His development so far includes four distinct pitches, with scouting reports projecting continued growth. While he remains a prospect still a few years from contending for top organizational rankings, the Cubs clearly regard his projectable frame and skill set as a foundation for long-term success.
A Hot Finish: Angel Cepeda’s Rise with Myrtle Beach
Angel Cepeda’s 2025 campaign with Low-A Myrtle Beach unfolded unevenly, but his strong finish caught attention and earned him the #13 prospect spot. After a slow start, Cepeda ignited over his final 132 plate appearances, posting a remarkable 157 weighted runs created plus (wRC+), with four home runs, six doubles, two triples, and a .331 batting average. This late surge demonstrated not only power but improved plate discipline, as his strikeout rate dropped from 33.7% to 26.6% during this span.
The right-handed hitter offers a projectable 6-foot-1 frame and should develop into a third-base candidate, although he has spent much of his career at shortstop. As he matures and adds strength, a position change is likely. Cepeda’s simple batting setup and improving pitch recognition mark him as a promising offensive talent. Given his development trajectory, it is plausible that he will ascend into some organizations’ top-five prospect lists by next season.
Injury Challenges Slow Progress: Cole Mathis’ 2025 Setback
Cole Mathis entered professional baseball with considerable promise following his 2024 draft status, highlighted by strong batted-ball metrics and prior success in the Cape Cod League. However, his transition has been hampered by injuries and inconsistent production. Coming off Tommy John surgery, Mathis struggled to find consistency in Low-A Myrtle Beach during 2025, registering a modest .221 batting average despite a solid 121 wRC+ and a commendable 13% walk rate.
Low-A is often a proving ground where college hitters excel quickly; for comparison, fellow 2025 draftee Kane Kepley posted a dominant 180 wRC+ at the same level. Mathis’ lower offensive output prompted a stint in the Arizona Fall League, where his line of .280/.439/.400 suggested potential but still lacked significant power. The hope remains that his injury recovery dulled his typical power production, as his plate discipline and approach appear intact. Should he regain his former power, Mathis could rebound strongly in 2026. Otherwise, his future may hinge on defensive improvements at third base.
Ups and Downs: Brandon Birdsell’s Injury-Plagued 2025
Brandon Birdsell entered 2025 aiming for a major-league debut but faced a difficult season marked by injuries. Despite participation as a non-roster invitee in spring training camp, Birdsell spent substantial time on the 60-day injured list and only returned to game action midseason, pitching briefly in the Complex League before advancing to Triple-A Iowa. Unfortunately, further setbacks arose in August, culminating in the announcement that he would require Tommy John surgery once again.
Repeated injuries have shadowed Birdsell’s career, including a rotator cuff issue in 2021 that impacted his draft standing, prompting him to return to Texas Tech for an additional season. This upcoming surgery marks his second Tommy John procedure, following one in high school. While such a history injects uncertainty into his future, Birdsell’s unique pitching mechanics and past successes kept him on the Cubs radar. Given his age of 25, a full rehabilitation year in 2026 is anticipated, with hopes for a 2027 comeback. His ability to return to form will determine if he can regain a role as a crafty pitcher or if the physical toll becomes too great to overcome.
These prospects exemplify the volatility and promise inherent in baseball development, illustrating a blend of steady veterans, exciting newcomers, and players battling setbacks. Fans interested in following the ongoing evolution of the Cubs’ rising talent will find rich stories unfolding as these players strive toward the major leagues. The coming seasons will reveal which of these hidden gems can make lasting impacts at Wrigley Field and beyond.
