The Chicago Cubs have added two undrafted relief pitching prospects to their organization: Jackson Kirkpatrick and Ethan Bell, according to Bleacher Nation. Kirkpatrick, a 6-foot-7 right-hander, is assigned to the Cubs’ rookie-level affiliate in the Arizona Complex League. He previously played at Western Carolina University and the University of Indianapolis.
Although his collegiate career was marked by struggles, with a 1-3 record, a 10.23 ERA, a 2.432 WHIP, and 14.3 BB/9, Kirkpatrick still has a lot of upside. He consistently throws a mid-to-high 90s fastball with 17.5 inches of vertical break and has even approached triple digits with that pitch. His 15.8 K/9 rate showcases considerable untapped potential, making him an intriguing project if he can address his command issues.
After an offseason of training at Tread Athletics, which was previously the training ground for Chicago pitching guru and special assistant Tyler Zombro, Jackson Kirkpatrick joins a notable group of MLB arms that have trained there, such as Cole Ragans, Mitch Keller, and Tanner Scott. Kirkpatrick, a 6-foot-7 right-hander, is bringing his raw potential to the Cubs’ organization.
Alongside him is Ethan Bell, a 6-foot-1 right-hander from St. Louis University, who posted a 7-4 record with a 4.76 ERA and an impressive 11.8 K/9 rate during the 2023-24 season. Bell will also join Kirkpatrick in the Arizona Complex League (ACL). While Bell’s fastball is unlikely to top the mid-90s range, he has an intriguing gyro slider that sets him apart.
Both signings are low-risk moves with plenty of upside. While it is unlikely they develop into serious weapons for the team, taking a shot on a pair of 23-year-olds makes sense.
These moves also demonstrate the Cubs’ willingness to go beyond conventional means of acquiring prospects.
