Beyond the Top 30: Uncovering the Cubs' Hidden Gems in 2026
Earlier this year, Baseball America unveiled their highly anticipated list of the Top 30 Cubs Prospects for 2026, leaving fans buzzing with excitement. But what about the players who narrowly missed the cut? Could there be future stars lurking just outside the spotlight? We're diving deeper into the Cubs' farm system to introduce you to 10 prospects who, despite flying under the radar, possess the talent and potential to make a significant impact.
And this is the part most people miss... These players, ranked 31-40, represent a fascinating mix of raw talent, untapped potential, and unique skill sets. From pitchers battling back from injuries to power-hitting outfielders refining their swings, each player on this list has a story worth following.
31. Ethan Flanagan (LHP): Selected in the 17th round of the 2023 draft out of UCLA, Flanagan's journey has been marked by resilience. Having undergone two Tommy John surgeries, he finally made his professional debut in 2025. Despite throwing in the 89-91 mph range, Flanagan's advanced pitchability and strike-throwing ability make him a intriguing prospect. Think of him as a crafty lefty who relies on precision and deception rather than pure velocity.
32. Alexey Lumpuy (OF): Signed out of Cuba in 2023, Lumpuy is a toolsy outfielder with plus athleticism, raw power, and above-average speed. However, here's where it gets controversial: his significant swing-and-miss issues could be a major roadblock. Can he refine his approach at the plate and unlock his immense potential?
33. Grant Kipp (RHP): An undrafted free agent from Yale, Kipp's journey has been one of perseverance. After a breakout 2025 season in Double-A, where he showcased elite spin rates on his pitches, Kipp is finally turning heads. His low-to-mid-80s sweeper, with spin rates exceeding 3,000 rpm, is a weapon to watch.
34. Jack Neely (RHP): Acquired from the Yankees in 2024, Neely is a low-leverage reliever with a fastball sitting 93-95 mph and a mid-80s slider with tight gyro spin. While he's yet to establish himself as a dominant force, his stuff suggests he could be a valuable bullpen piece.
35. Eli Lovich (OF): Drafted in the 11th round out of high school, Lovich struggled in his first taste of professional ball, hitting just .214 in Low-A. However, his encouraging exit velocity data and fringe-average plate skills hint at a higher ceiling. Could he be a late bloomer?
36. Connor Noland (RHP): A ninth-round pick in 2022, Noland has been a consistent performer, exceeding 100 innings in each of his three professional seasons. While his stuff is subpar, his above-average command and ability to keep hitters off balance make him a potential emergency starter.
37. Kade Snell (OF): Drafted in the fifth round after a strong senior season at Alabama, Snell struggled in his professional debut, batting just .167 in High-A. However, his bad luck on batted balls and solid plate discipline suggest he could bounce back. Is he a bat-first corner outfielder waiting to break out?
38. Yahil Melendez (SS): A seventh-round pick from Puerto Rico, Melendez possesses plus raw power but struggles with bat-to-ball skills. If he can reduce his swing-and-miss tendencies, his exciting tools could make him a force to be reckoned with.
39. Brett Bateman (OF): While Bateman may not be a power hitter, he's a classic bench outfielder profile. A plus defender in center field with a high on-base percentage and base-stealing ability, he could carve out a role as a valuable utility player.
40. Eli Jerzembeck (RHP): Once a Top 250 draft prospect, Jerzembeck's career has been derailed by injuries, including Tommy John surgery and a stress fracture in his elbow. When healthy, he possesses a low-90s fastball and a high-spin breaking ball. Can he overcome his injury history and reach his once-promising potential?
What do you think? Which of these prospects has the most upside? Who do you think will surprise everyone in 2026? Let us know in the comments below!
