Trevor Clifton

The Minor League Pitcher of the Year for the Cubs in 2016, Clifton led the Carolina League in ERA at 2.72 while holding opposing batters to an anemic .225 BAA. He also finished third in the league in strikeouts, fanning 129 batters in 119 innings for High-A Myrtle Beach. A 12th-round pick in the 2013 draft, Clifton has already exceeded expectations with improved command along with swing-and-miss ability, particularly with a filthy curveball. Double-A will be a true test of Clifton's future path, along with the continued development of a third pitch. Clifton may not have the upside of a No. 1 or even a No. 2 starter, but his polish and wipeout curveball make him an intriguing prospect to watch as he ascends to the higher levels for the Cubbies.