NEWSLETTER
Chicago Cubs pitching prospect Caleb Kilian was once again looking like a potential breakout candidate back in the spring, flashing premium stuff, strong command, and an ability to miss bats. But a teres major strain in his pitching shoulder in Spring Training put a quick stop to that, and he’s been resting and rehabbing ever since.
Thankfully, Kilian has reached the rehab start stage, and was sent to South Bend to get in his first outing. The results were quite poor – three hits, two walks, and three runs in under an inning of work – but that isn’t necessarily unexpected in a situation like this. It’s just good to see him get back out there, use his pitches, and demonstrate that he still has his elite velocity.
Kilian, who just turned 27, is not coming to save the Cubs’ season or anything, and indeed he may not be ready for a big league appearance – if it comes at all – for a while yet. But because his velo and stuff is so good in a vacuum, it’s impossible not to dream on him making an impact in SOME role in the years ahead. You’d just like him to get back to a place this year where you feel confident in keeping him on the 40-man roster this offseason, believing he could be a valuable bullpen or swing or depth arm next year.
