Cubs Take Power Prospect Myles Bailey in Second Round

Why Chicago Chose Bailey

The Cubs signaled a fresh commitment to power by adding Myles Bailey with a compensation pick after losing Kyle Tucker to free agency. Earlier in the same round they had selected Caden Sorrell for his raw strength, showing the team’s doubled focus on adding bat‑to‑ball explosiveness. Bailey’s profile convinced Chicago that the power upside was worth the early‑round risk. Scouts praised his 80‑grade raw power, even though his in‑game grade lagged because of swing‑and‑miss tendencies. This pick marks a noticeable shift away from the Cubs’ traditional, more conservative draft approach.

College Highlights and Draft Profile

Bailey, 6’4”, 255 lb, emerged as one of college baseball’s top power threats in 2026, hitting 19 home runs as a freshman in 56 games and 13 homers as a sophomore in just 26 games before an ankle injury ended his season. He earned an 80‑grade raw power rating, though his in‑game power grade suffers from contact issues. His strikeout rate improved from 31 % as a freshman to 24.6 % in his sophomore season. He complemented his power with plate discipline, walking frequently and displaying a three‑true‑outcomes swing. Defensively, Bailey showed quick hands at first base and is expected to remain there.

Potential Upside and Risks

MLB Pipeline ranked Bailey 83rd overall, Baseball America placed him 96th, and Keith Law left him off his Top 100. The Cubs selected him 75th overall, believing the power upside justifies the early‑round risk. In an ideal scenario, Bailey could hit 30+ home runs with a .340 OBP thanks to walks. The flip side is that contact woes could keep him at Double‑A if he can’t adjust. Scouts note his exit velocities are elite, and his swing length gives him park‑to‑park pop, while the Cubs reviewed ankle medical reports at the Draft Combine and see no chronic issue.

What This Means for Chicago’s Future

Taking a pure first baseman in the second round is rare for the Cubs, indicating they view Bailey as a potential star. If he stays at first, the ankle’s impact on speed is minimal. The pick balances high risk with high reward, aligning with a more aggressive draft mindset. Success could add a genuine power threat to the Cubs’ outfield or cleanup spot. Failure would leave Chicago with another projectable prospect to develop.

Key Talking Points

• Power: Elite exit velocity, 80‑grade raw power.
• Contact: Strikeout rates still above 20%.
• Defense: Above‑average hands at first base.
• Health: Ankle injury appears non‑chronic after combine evaluation.