Three Chicago Cubs Prospects to Keep an Eye on in 2026

As Spring Training winds down, young players begin heading back to minor league camp. However, for the Chicago Cubs, this spring felt different. The organization showcased an impressive wave of young talent, with several prospects making the most of extended opportunities. The Cubs experienced heightened attention due to injuries and roster decisions. Events like the World Baseball Classic also increased exposure to the Cubs’ farm system.

Even after moving Owen Caissie in a deal for Edward Cabrera, the depth remains strong. Under Jed Hoyer, the Chicago Cubs have quietly built one of the more intriguing pipelines in baseball. As the regular season approaches, here are three young players worth watching closely as they begin their climb.

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Cole Mathis

Cole Mathis is still a bit further away, but the upside is clear. The 22-year-old right-handed power bat was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the second round of the 2024 MLB Draft. He was drafted out of the College of Charleston. He brings legitimate pop to the system. He made a brief appearance this spring. He recorded a hit in his lone at-bat. His development will be something to monitor over a full season.

His transition to pro ball had its challenges. In 29 games with Single-A Myrtle Beach last year, Mathis hit .215 with three home runs and 14 RBI while striking out 29 times in 107 at-bats. However, his college production—highlighted by a .335 average with 14 home runs—shows what he’s capable of when locked in. If he can cut down on strikeouts, he increases his chances for a move up to High-A. Raising his contact rate can make a move to Double-A by the end of the season realistic.

Luis Martinez-Gomez

Luis Martinez-Gomez might not get as much attention, but his numbers suggest he should. The 22-year-old right-hander quietly put together an impressive 2025 season, finishing with a 1.46 ERA across 55.1 innings while striking out 52 batters. A Chicago Cubs relief pitching prospect, who many do not know, could change this summer.

He split time between Single-A Myrtle Beach and High-A South Bend, showing an ability to miss bats while limiting damage. Perhaps most impressive—he allowed just one home run all season. This spring, he continued to show promise in limited action, tossing a scoreless outing with a strikeout.

If he continues trending in this direction, Martinez-Gomez could rise quickly through the system. A jump to Double-A is very much in play if he maintains his command. It could potentially go beyond that if he keeps the ball in the park.

Pedro Ramirez

Pedro Ramirez might be the name closest to impacting the big-league roster. The infielder has drawn strong praise this spring from both Nico Hoerner and manager Craig Counsell. Counsell noted that Ramirez could help the team as soon as this season.

His performance backed it up. Ramirez hit .367 with two home runs. He recorded 12 RBI this spring. He showed a balanced offensive approach and the ability to produce in key situations. That follows a solid 2025 campaign in Double-A Knoxville, where he hit .280 with 73 RBI and added 28 stolen bases.

He has been optioned to Double-A to start the season. If he continues to produce, Triple-A Iowa should be the next step. If injuries strike the big-league roster, Ramirez could make an impact in Chicago soon. He is a legitimate candidate for this opportunity.

Summary

It’s easy to focus on what the Cubs didn’t do this offseason, but the bigger picture tells a different story. The organization has built a deep and developing farm system. This system could play a major role in shaping the roster over the next few seasons.

Players like Mathis, Martinez-Gomez, and Ramirez represent different timelines—but all three have a path to contributing. If even one or two of these prospects succeed, they could provide the Cubs with a significant boost. The team would not need to look outside the organization.