Chicago Cubs 1st Round Mock Draft: Exploring Potential Picks
MLB draft analysts dissect the Cubs' top targets as the 2026 first-round race heats up
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The brief
Multiple mock drafts now rank Roch Cholowsky, Grady Emerson, and Vahn Lackey among the Cubs’ most likely first-round picks. Coverage highlights their positional strengths—Cholowsky’s power potential, Emerson’s defensive versatility, and Lackey’s pitching dominance—as key factors in the team’s decision-making.
Sports Illustrated, Baseball America, and ESPN have updated their projections following the College World Series and Draft Combine, while Bleacher Nation focuses specifically on Chicago’s options. The analysis compares these prospects to past draft classes, noting how their skills align with the Cubs’ current roster needs.
The next development will be the Cubs’ official selection, expected after the MLB Draft Combine concludes. Teams may also react to any late-breaking injuries or standout performances in the upcoming minor-league showcase events.
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Quick answers
Who are the top three prospects being linked to the Cubs?
Roch Cholowsky, Grady Emerson, and Vahn Lackey are currently the most frequently mentioned first-round targets in mock drafts.
Which outlets are covering the Cubs’ draft prospects?
Sports Illustrated, Baseball America, ESPN, Pitcher List, and Bleacher Nation have published recent mock draft analyses focusing on the Cubs.
When will the Cubs make their official pick?
Coverage does not yet specify an exact date, but the selection will follow the MLB Draft Combine and likely occur in late June or early July 2026.
Coverage (8)
- Minnesota Twins 1st Round Mock Draft: Exploring Potential Picks Bleacher Nation · 3h ago
- Cubs fall back on strategy they know best in MLB's latest 2026 mock draft Cubbies Crib · 3h ago
- Inbox: Comparing No. 2 Draft prospect Emerson to Willits MLB.com · 3h ago
- 2026 MLB Mock Draft 2.0: Roch Cholowsky, Grady Emerson, Vahn Lackey Battle to Go No. 1 Sports Illustrated · 3h ago
- 2026 MLB Mock Draft Pitcher List · 3h ago
- 2026 MLB Mock Draft 5.0: Updated First-Round Picks After The College World Series & Draft Combine Baseball America · 3h ago
- Comparing top 2026, 2025 and 2024 MLB draft prospects ESPN · 3h ago
- Chicago Cubs 1st Round Mock Draft: Exploring Potential Picks Bleacher Nation · 3h ago
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