Chicago Cubs sign former 2nd round pick with high upside (report)

The Chicago Cubs have made some splashy signings this off-season, including trades for outfielder Kyle Tucker and reliever Ryan Pressly. Tucker, a star at his position, and Pressly, aiming to return to a closer role, are both great additions to the team.  However, sometimes it’s the under the radar moves that play a crucial role in navigating the challenges of a 162 game schedule.

One person that could easily find himself helping out the Cubs in 2025 is former second round pick A.J. Puckett as per reports he has signed a minor league deal with the organization.

A.J. Puckett reportedly has signed a minor league deal with the Chicago Cubs

According to Jacob Zanolla, 29 year old Puckett has signed with the Cubs.  Puckett recently participated in a pro day at Tread Athletics where he showcased an impressive four pitch repertoire featuring a four seam fastball that averaged 96 MPH, a sinker at 94 MPH, a 92 MPH cutter, and a devastating sweeper.

RHP – AJ Puckett (@Puckett_AJ15) flew in from the DR where he’s racked up over 40 dominant innings, showcased a ridiculous plot (T96.9), then flew back to the DR and shoved his next outing.

This guy 100% has the stuff to compete in the show. Sinker, 4SFB, CT, SW – all elite. pic.twitter.com/WzrPYsApoN

— Turner Givens (@TurnerGivens) January 13, 2025

A.J. Puckett has been impressive in the Mexican Pacific Winter League

After not pitching in affiliated baseball last year, right-hander Puckett has been dominant in the Mexican Pacific Winter League.  Through 40.1 innings pitched he has a 2.68 ERA and 38 strikeouts.  Prior to this winter, he last pitched in the Seattle Mariners organization in 2023 where he had a 4.52 ERA across the Double-A and Triple-A levels.  Before that, he pitched for minor league affiliate teams for the Braves, White Sox, and his originally drafting team the Royals.

Hopefully Puckett will find success with the Cubs.  It’s likely that he will begin his tenure in the upper level of the minor leagues, possibly Triple-A.  If he can continue to build upon the success he has had this winter then he could be one of the first options Chicago looks to should an opportunity or need arise in the big leagues.