Cubs to Call Up 2021 First-Round Pick Jordan Wicks

The signs started popping up earlier this week when Jordan Wicks was a healthy scratch from a start with Triple-A Iowa. Now, it looks like it's almost official: Wicks is getting the call to the big-league club.

When the Cubs selected Wicks 21st overall in the 2021 MLB Draft, he was heralded as a pitcher with a high floor who could rise quickly through the minor-league ranks. Well, in just his second full season as a professional, Wicks is heading to Chicago.

The lefty started 2023 with Double-A Tennessee where he pitched to a 4-0 record in 13 starts with a 3.39 ERA, a 1.166 WHIP, and 69 strikeouts over 58.1 innings. After showing he could comfortably handle his assignment, Wicks was promoted to Triple-A Iowa where he was 3-0 in seven starts, posting a 3.82 ERA, 1.182 WHIP, and 30 strikeouts in 33.0 innings. 

Expect to see Wicks go after hitters with his plus changeup, a solid curveball and slider, and a low to mid-90s fastball. His cutter will be an interesting option as he looks to limit damage against right-handed hitters as well.

In a lot of cases where a recent draft pick gets called up to the majors before being added to the 40-man roster, it's because the prospect forced the team's hand. However, in Wicks' case, it's less about the lefty crushing things so much in the minors that put the Cubs in a position where they needed to give him a shot in the majors. Rather, it is more about the lefty already in the majors — Drew Smyly — imploding so severely that the Cubs can't risk keeping him in the starting rotation.

Don't get me wrong: I'm excited to see Wicks in the majors and hope that he shoves. I am high on Wicks; I have him at No. 7 on my Cubs' top prospects list and would likely put him toward the bottom of an MLB top 100 list. Just know that this move is just as much about the Cubs not having any other quality major-league options as it is about Wicks' potential.

Regardless, it is awesome to see Jordan Wicks already advancing to the majors. He is consistent, will limit walks, and gives the Cubs a starting pitcher about whom opposing teams will have limited knowledge. Here's hoping he can lock things down and stick with the big-league club moving forward.

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