Chicago Cubs promote 2 prospects to High-A

MiLB Central’s Chase Ford is reporting that the Cubs are calling up two prospects to High-A South Bend. The first name is outfielder Josiah Hartshorn. Hartshorn has gotten off to a hot start as he has a .893 OPS with five homers, 27 RBI, 26 runs scored, and four stolen bases this year. He has played multiple positions at first base and center field. However, he has primarily been playing in right field thus far. It is clear that Chicago has high hopes for him, being the eighth-ranked prospect in their organization right now.

The 2025 sixth-round pick has been an all-around solid player as a switch-hitter. However, his swings as a lefty hitter need some more polish as he’s predominantly a right-handed hitter. Of course, that is what the minors are for, but the southpaw has the ability to be a future star at Wrigleyville for years to come. This is a great first step for him to see how he does at the next level of his progression.

The Chicago Cubs are promoting Mason McGwire to High-A

Not only one prospect has been called up to High-A South Bend, but two. This one is not a prospect that is in the top 30 for the Cubs, but it has some significant name value. They have also called up right-handed pitcher Mason McGwire, the son of legend Mark McGwire. He has been seen as more of a project and comes with some risk of going elsewhere.

He is Rule 5 Draft eligible following the 2026 season due to his time in the minors. However, it is not too likely for that to happen. McGwire has looked better this season as he is 2-2 with a 2.40 ERA and 45 strikeouts over 30.0 innings. He has done a bit of everything as he has made five starts and also five relief appearances this year in Low-A.

McGwire has arm talent, but he needs to continue improving and staying healthy to continue climbing the minor league system. It will be intriguing to see how he pitches and if he’s an option in 2027 for a bullpen appearance or a spot start.