Chicago Cubs select Cade Townsend in 2026 MLB Draft
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 11, 2026, 7:35 PM
Last updated Jul 11, 2026
The Chicago Cubs selected pitcher Cade Townsend from Ole Miss as the 23rd overall pick in the first round of the 2026 MLB Draft on July 11. Townsend, from Aliso Viejo, California, had a breakout sophomore season, pitching 64 innings with 88 strikeouts. He brings a diverse five-pitch mix, highlighted by a strong curveball, but has experienced inconsistency in the past. His development at Ole Miss under pitching coach Joel Mangrum has significantly contributed to his improvement. The Cubs hope Townsend can become an effective starter as he transitions into professional baseball.
- •Cade Townsend was selected 23rd overall by the Chicago Cubs.
- •He pitched 64 innings with 88 strikeouts in 2026.
- •Townsend has a five-pitch repertoire with a mid-to-upper 90s fastball.
- •His previous season saw him post a 6.35 ERA over 34 innings.
- •He credits significant development to Ole Miss pitching coach Joel Mangrum.
- 7:35 PMYahoo Sports — Pros, cons of Chicago Cubs picking Ole Miss' Cade Townsend in 2026 MLB Draft
"Who drafted Cade Townsend? The Chicago Cubs picked the Ole Miss pitcher in the first round of the 2026 MLB Draft. Here's what to expect from him.
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