Cubs linked to Texas A&M shortstop as potential first-round pick

The Chicago Cubs will watch their crosstown rivals, the Chicago White Sox, select first overall in the 2026 MLB Draft. That is a position the Cubs have not drafted in since the 1982 season. 

For the Cubbies, they will have to wait a while before they make their first selection. They were awarded the 23rd overall pick for the upcoming draft. 

However, there will be tons of elite talent to choose from, both from the high school and college rankings. Lately, the front office has focused on college talent, and that trend could continue this year. 

MORE: Cubs could lose 32 home run slugger in free agency for Pete Crow-Armstrong reason

Cubs linked to Texas A&M shortstop as potential first-round pick

Five of the Cubs' last first-round draft picks were all college players. Specifically, an outfielder, a third baseman, a shortstop, a right-handed pitcher, and a left-handed pitcher. 

And that right-handed pitcher? None other than Cade Horton. So, I think the front office knows how to find them. 

Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter took a shot at predicting each team's first-round selection. In it, he believes the Cubs will take a chance on Texas A&M shortstop Chris Hacopian. 

"After two years at the University of Maryland, Hacopian transferred to Texas A&M and went 5-for-11 with a home run over his first three games of the season before he was sidelined with a back issue. His health going forward will determine whether he climbs closer to the teens, or he slides a bit as a potential value selection in this range on the strength of his polished 60-grade hit tool."

Hacopian is currently dealing with a back issue, which will need to be closely monitored. If he can return and continue to dominate with the bat in his hands, there is a chance that he could move up the draft board. Or, if the injury weighs him down, he could slide down the board. 

The Cubs' front office will want to keep him under a magnifying glass this season.

More MLB news:

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• Padres expected to grab another high-ceiling prep arm with their first-round pick
• Orioles projected to select Coastal Carolina's ace in 2026 MLB Draft
• Royals linked to Mississippi State slugger as a potential first-round pick
• Rays projected to take Alabama standout with second pick in 2026 MLB Draft