In a recent interview with the Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Cubs player development guru Jason McLeod delivered no uncertain terms concerning the club's draft strategy:
"One thing that we know is … you need power pitching, you need impact players to get into the postseason and to go deep into the postseason," McLeod said."It takes a little bit of time to acquire those guys, whether it be trade, major-league free agency and certainly in the draft and international markets. That’s something that we’re going to try to do, and, again, it’s that word, ‘impact.’ That’s what we’re looking to get."
The Cubs currently have a minor league system ranked among the worst in the MLB, but with four picks in the upcoming MLB Rule 4 Draft, they have a chance of rectifying that. And though the club has pitching needs, they also will stay focused on what kind of positional talent is available at the top:
"Pitching will definitely be a focus in this draft," McLeod said. "It’s not going to be need-based picks, especially with our first pick. But once we get past the first pick — and it could be a pitcher; it may not be a pitcher — it is something we are going to certainly try to address. It is a need for our organization..."
The 2012 MLB Amateur Draft begins on June 4 and lasts three days. Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more updates on the draft.
For more on the Chicago Cubs, check out the Cubs blog Bleed Cubbie Blue. And to learn more about the latest MLB prospect news and ratings, drop by Minor League Ball.