3 Draft Picks Cubs Can Make in 2020 First Round

The Chicago Cubs took an uncharacteristic approach in free agency this winter by literally not spending any money. This is an organization that has had disputes with star third baseman Kris Bryant in contract negotiations and placed first baseman Anthony Rizzo on-and-off the trading block. Luckily for them, the Cubs hold the 16th pick in the first round of the MLB Draft, so they can select their next potential face of the franchise.

With various needs in the farm system, here are three prospects the Cubbies can select in the first round.

3. OF Austin Hendrick, West Allegheny HS

The best bat in the entire draft class is arguably high school outfielder Austin Hendrick. Hendrick's s elite raw power and bat speed in the batters box had MLB scouts fall in full bloom love. Despite that, some scouts have concerns with his durability and his propensity to strike out. In regards to the latter, today's game is all about swinging for the fences, so strikeouts are going to happen. If teams ahead of Chicago aren't sold Hendrick, you best believe they'll run up to the podium to select the high-upside prospect.

2. RHP Tanner Burns, Auburn

When looking at the Cubs pitching rotation, Jon Lester is getting older and Yu Darvish hasn't exactly lived up to his massive contract. If Chicago wants to find their next ace of the future, they should look at Auburn's Tanner Burns. While he does lack the prototypical size of a pitcher, Burns is impressive on the mound. He possesses a consistent 92-97 mph fastball and an adequate breaking ball. During his three seasons at Auburn, Burns accumulated a 2.86 ERA and 14-9 record while striking out 210 batters in 188.2 innings pitched, which etched him a spot on the university's All-Decade Team. This is the year for teams to draft a pitcher, and Burns could be the perfect fit for the Cubs.

1. C Tyler Soderstrom, Turlock HS

Perhaps the name that's been most linked to the Cubs is California high school catcher Tyler Soderstrom. At Turlock High School, Soderstrom is the team's backup catcher, only because the starter has better defensive abilities behind the plate. Despite that, he makes up for it in hitting. He's not a power hitter (yet), but he possesses superb contact. Additionally and perhaps most importantly, Soderstrom has worked out at third base during the pre-draft process. Could he be the heir apparent to Bryant? Possibly, but that's only if he drops to the Cubs' laps.