Chicago Cubs: 5 biggest steals on Day 3 of 2019 MLB draft
By Ryan Sikes
5. Nolan Letzgus, RHP (Heritage High School)
The Chicago Cubs found themselves a power pitcher prospect in Nolan Letzgus who was taken in the 34th round of the 2019 MLB Draft. The senior from Heritage High School has a commitment to play collegiate baseball at Tennessee in the fall, so it will be interesting to see if he ends up signing.
If he does, the Cubs could have a much-needed power pitcher on their hands. Letzgus already throws 94 mph and projects to throw even harder as he matures. He currently stands at 6-0, and 170 pounds but will add some weight as he gets stronger.
He played both the infield and starting pitcher in high school, which is not uncommon. In his 2017-2018 junior season, Letzgus made just 5 appearances and tossed 6.1 innings with 12 strikeouts to just 3 walks and allowed 1 earned run. This past season was his first as a full-time member of Heritage’s rotation.
He tossed 45.0 innings and struck out 75 batters while finishing with a 5-1 record to the tune of a 0.46 ERA. For what it’s worth, the kid can also rake. Letzgus batted 0.420 with 4 home runs, 28 RBI’s and 11 doubles this year.
Next. 8th round pick DJ Herz wanted to be drafted by Cubs. dark
His fastball velocity is in the 99.5 percentile for this high school class as the average is around 82 mph. He projects to stick as a pitcher whether he signs with the Cubs or honors his commitment to Tennessee, so he will be a guy to keep an eye on.