Cubs select Mississippi RHP Cade Townsend in MLB Draft
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 11, 2026, 8:22 PM
Last updated Jul 11, 2026
The Chicago Cubs have selected Mississippi right-hander Cade Townsend with their first pick in the MLB Draft. Townsend, a 21-year-old who pitched at Ole Miss, possesses a five-pitch arsenal including a fastball that can reach 98 mph. Despite experiencing shoulder soreness during the season, Townsend made 14 starts in 2026, finishing with a 3.94 ERA. The Cubs aimed for a balance of risk and reward with this selection, choosing a pitcher they believe could rise swiftly through their farm system.
- •Cade Townsend is a 21-year-old right-handed pitcher.
- •He posted a 3.94 ERA with 88 strikeouts in 64 innings in 2026.
- •The Cubs selected him as the 23rd pick in the draft.
- •Townsend has a five-pitch mix, including a fastball and cutter.
- •Concerns exist about his size and injury history.
- 8:22 PMYahoo Sports — MLB Draft: The Cubs select Mississippi RHP Cade Townsend
"The Cubs took an SEC right-hander with a wide arsenal with their first pick.
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