Cubs could part ways with former first-round pick this winter originally appeared on The Sporting News

The Chicago Cubs have played well this season. The acquisition of Kyle Tucker, alongside Pete Crow-Armstrong stepping up both offensively and defensively, has provided a spark for this team all year round.

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They find themselves chasing a five-game lead by the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central. While they would love to be the division champs, they currently hold onto the top NL Wild Card spot.

Despite the good season, it is never too early to think about next year. They have a few key pieces who do not have a contract for the 2026 season, including Seiya Suzuki, Aaron Civale, and Kyle Tucker, alongside some players who do have options for next season, but have not been playing up to par.

One of these players, who has not been as consistent as the club had hoped for, is Jordan Wicks. He was the team’s first-round draft pick back in 2021, but has had a rocky time in professional baseball.

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Wicks has not gotten many opportunities this season. He seems to be overlooked greatly, and Cubbies Cribs’ Jordan Campbell could see the club moving on from him over the winter.

“With the Cubs constantly overlooking Jordan Wicks this season when they have had a pitching need at the Major League level, it feels like the former first-round pick has fallen out of favor with the organization. There was some surprise that he wasn’t traded at the deadline, but that likely will change this winter.”

If that is the case over the winter, Wicks should not have a problem finding another team. He has the tools to be a great left-handed pitcher at the big-league level, but still needs further development.