Cubs Make Flurry of Minor-League Promotions in Wake of MLB Trade Deadline

The Chicago Cubs were one of the most impactful trade deadline teams. Adding a bat such as Jeimer Candelario makes the Cubs one of the most improved teams following Tuesday's deadline. However, in the wake of the moves at the MLB level, many moves within the minor leagues occurred as well. 

On Tuesday, the Cubs made a flurry of minor-league promotions, many involving some of their recent draft picks. First- and third-round picks Matt Shaw and Josh Rivera were both assigned to High-A South Bend. In addition, Cade Horton was promoted to Double-A Tennessee, and Brett Bateman and Brian Kalmer were assigned to Low-A Myrtle Beach. 

Cade Horton has been special at the High-A level. After receiving two promotions already this season, Horton now sits in Double-A after beginning the season with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Between both levels of A-ball, Horton has made 15 starts and carries a 3.23 ERA over 61.1 innings of work. In addition, Horton has only walked 16 batters, but struck out 86 in that time frame. He has been everything and more for the Cubs down on the farm. 

As for the draft picks, Matt Shaw and Josh Rivera will get their first taste of professional ball with the South Bend Cubs. As Cubs On Tap panelist Juice said on Tuesday's show, Shaw looks like he can crush High-A the rest of the season and start next season in Double-A. Rivera might take longer, but still has great tools to develop. 

As for the pair of Low-A players, Bateman and Kalmer will get looks in Low-A after serving as later draft picks. Both players have different traits that the Cubs like. Bateman is more of a contact hitter while Kalmer has an intriguing amount of power for a late-round pick. 

Although the Cubs moved two prospects to acquire Jeimer Candelario, its safe to believe the farm system is as strong as it has ever been under the Jed Hoyer regime.