Chicago Cubs 2025 MLB Draft: Rounds 11-15

Another arm, another college background. The Cubs keep it going with the selection of South Carolina RHP Eli Jerzembeck in the 11th round. That said, Jerzembeck is a fascinating addition for the Cubs. Why? He hasn't pitched since 2023. 

Missing 2024 and 2025 due to injury, Jerzembeck pitched well in 2023. Over 16 appearances (three starts), the righty fanned 36 batters while allowing just six walks. In addition, he carried a 2.84 ERA over 31.2 innings of work. 

Clearly the Cubs liked something with his traits to take a flier on him after missing two years due to injury. 

Round 12, Pick 361: RHP Connor Spencer, Ole Miss

2025 is the season of college arms for the Cubs. This time, RHP Connor Spencer is the next arm that the Cubs have added to the stable. 

Spencer is a little different than some of the other arms acquired in the draft. Spencer is almost exclusively a relief pitcher. In 2025, Spencer pitched 24.2 innings over 21 appearances with a 1.82 ERA. 27 strikeouts to 10 walks makes Spencer a reliable reliever and his eight saves also show an ability to close games. 

As a reliever, Spencer may have a fast track to the big leagues. The Cubs seem to be taking fliers on college guys late who have the ability to step into a bullpen and potentially make an impact as soon as next season. 

Round 13, Pick 391: RHP Nate Williams, Mississippi State

At this point, it is comical. The Cubs selected yet another collegiate bullpen arm from the state of Mississippi. This time, Mississippi State's RHP Nate Williams is the latest addition to the organization. 

After one season with the Bulldogs, Williams pitched 27.2 innings over 19 appearances. An underwhelming 1-3 record and 4.23 ERA isn't all that exciting, but 51 strikeouts compared to just 11 walks is clearly what stands out. A right-handed hurler that can strike batters out is exactly what the Cubs want. 

At 6'4" and 250 lbs., Williams is another player who could have a fast track to the majors as a bullpen piece. 

Round 14, Pick 421: RHP Kaemyn Franklin, Victory Christian HS (OK)

For just the third time in this draft, the Cubs have dipped into the high school ranks. Hailing from Victory Christian HS in Oklahoma, the Cubs selected RHP Kaemyn Franklin with their 14th round pick. 

Franklin is committed to Oklahoma to play his college ball, and is a two-way player. The Cubs drafted him as a pitcher, but he also plays third base. His fastball topped out in the mid-80's during competition, but topped out at 91 mph in testing. In addition, he has a changeup with great late life, which is likely something the Cubs really like about his arsenal. 

Committed to his home state school makes Franklin a tough signing candidate. The Cubs may need to wow him with their offer to prevent him from attending Oklahoma. Finally, a fun fact. Kaemyn's older bother, Kohl, is also a Cubs prospect. 

Round 15, Pick 451: RHP Noah Edders, Troy University (AL)

Despite changing their tune in the 14th round by selecting a high school arm, the Cubs went back to their trend in the 15th round by selecting another college pitcher. This time, Troy University's Noah Edders was the selection. 

Edders is a local selection for the Cubs, as the right-hander was born in Woodridge, IL and attended Downers Grove South HS. Before his lone season at Troy, Edders pitched at Bradley University in Peoria, IL. 

In 65.0 innings of work in 14 starts, Edders owned a 5.12 ERA and walked 27 batters. However, his 67 strikeouts is something the Cubs see promise in, and the college starter could allow his stuff to play better in a bullpen role in the future. The Cubs seem to have a type as the draft pushes into the later rounds, and it is safe to believe Edders' future may involve a trip to the bullpen.