Feature photo by Rich Biesterfeld

Arguably the best relief prospect in the Cubs system has been promoted to the highest level of the minor leagues.

According to the Iowa Cubs roster, Jeremiah Estrada is now an I-Cub. The burly righty has put together the most dominant season in the organization between High-A and Double-A. I mean, look at these numbers.

42.1 innings, 1.49 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, .172/.274/.234 opponent slash line, 39.3% strikeout rate, 32.3% CSW, and just 25 hits and one homer allowed

It’s been a long and winding road to get to this point for the 23-year-old, as he threw just 17 professional innings from when he was drafted in the 6th round of the 2017 draft until last year’s 2021 campaign. He dealt with injuries during that time but always flashes electric stuff when he was healthy.

Now fully healthy and a full-time reliever, that stuff has really shined as Estrada has logged more innings this year that the rest of his career combined. Look at what pitching guru Lance Brozdowski has to say about him:

There’s even an added wrinkle in this story for Estrada as two promotions might not be enough. Rule Five Draft eligible this offseason, he is a prime candidate to be added to the 40-man roster before December’s draft. It’s a crowded group of guys that fit that criteria with over 70 guys trying to make their case, but Estrada has more than earned his spot.

Because he will likely get added to the 40-man roster in the offseason, there’s a good possibility we see Estrada on the bump in Chicago this year, accelerating his timeline.

Until he makes his Triple-A debut, take some time to enjoy this awesome compilation of Jeremiah Estrada nastiness from the first half of this season!