Cubs Get Wolfpack Catcher in Latest Mock Draft
The Chicago Cubs have one of the best farm systems in baseball and have another chance to add to the organization’s immense depth this July at the MLB Draft.
Per MLB Pipeline the Cubs’ farm system is ranked No. 2 behind only the Baltimore Orioles.
The Cubs will once again be working with a pick in the top half of the draft.
Baseball America recently conducted its first in-season mock draft, which was released after the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres opened the season in Korea.
With the No. 14 pick, the Cubs selected a catcher, Jacob Cozart, out of NC State. He was the second catcher selected, as the Detroit Tigers ended up with Cal’s Caleb Lomavita at No. 9.
Baseball America made the point that Cozart is showing prowess at the plate this season, as in his first 15 games with the Wolfpack he’s batting .351/.519/.649 with five home runs, a 25.3% walk rate and a 15.2% strikeout rate.
Last season, his sophomore year with NC state he was selected All-ACC Second Team after he batted .301 with 10 homers, 14 doubles, two triples, 42 RBI and 107 total bases.
Depending upon Cozart’s development, he could help the Cubs behind the plate soon. The expected starter this season is Yan Gomes. Behind him is Miguel Amaya, who would appear to be the heir apparent.
The Cubs only have two catchers in their Top 30 prospects, and one can double as a first baseman. The one with more flexibility is Moises Ballesteros, while the other catcher as Pablo Aliendo.
Cozart’s college polish may allow him to compete for a job. Look at last year’s first-round pick, Matt Shaw. He played his college baseball at Maryland last year and he’s gotten an extended look with the Cubs in spring training. Injury issues with Patrick Wisdom could potentially allow Shaw to take on a Major League role this season.
Cozart could do the same if he progresses quickly and the Cubs opt to move away from Gomes after this season.
