Improving Command, Proving Health Are Keys For Cubs’ Jaxon Wiggins

Key Takeaways:

• Jaxon Wiggins missed the 2023 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery.
• In 2024, he debuted professionally, making 18 starts across three minor league levels.
• Wiggins posted a 4.37 ERA with 71 strikeouts and 36 walks in 59.2 innings.
• His exceptional athleticism and “electric stuff” highlight his high potential.
• The Cubs are taking a patient approach to help him improve his command without diminishing his strengths.

Returning to the Mound After Surgery

Getting fully healthy and building confidence was a priority for Jaxon Wiggins last year. The 23-year-old righthander, drafted in the second round by the Chicago Cubs in 2023 out of Arkansas, missed his draft year after undergoing Tommy John surgery. He did not make his professional debut until May 2024 in the Rookie-level Arizona Complex League.

Progress Across Three Levels

Wiggins wasted no time showcasing his abilities upon his return. He made 18 starts across three minor league levels, finishing the season with eight starts at High-A South Bend. Over 59.2 innings, he recorded a 4.37 ERA with 71 strikeouts. However, his 36 walks highlighted ongoing challenges with command.

Cubs farm director Jason Kanzler emphasized the importance of Wiggins gaining confidence in his health. “It’s really important for him to be confident that he is fully healthy and ready to go,” Kanzler said. “And I think when you post like he did last year, that just builds his confidence.”

An Exceptional Athlete with Electric Stuff

Standing at 6-foot-6, Wiggins is described by Kanzler as an exceptional athlete and “truly a top percentile physical freak.” In his college days at Arkansas, he boasted swing-and-miss stuff that attracted the Cubs’ attention. His electric arm makes him an intriguing prospect within the organization’s pitching ranks.

Struggles with Command

Despite his impressive physical tools, Wiggins has struggled to harness his command, leading to control issues and increased walks. “He doesn’t have the best command yet,” Kanzler acknowledged. The 36 walks he issued in less than 60 innings illustrate the area he needs to refine to advance in his career.

Glimpses of Untapped Potential

Wiggins’ potential was on full display during his final two starts of 2024. In those outings, he struck out 17 batters, walked five, and allowed only one earned run over 10 innings. These performances provided a tantalizing glimpse of what he could become with improved control.

A Patient Approach to Development

The Cubs are committed to nurturing Wiggins’ talent without rushing the process. “I think the way that we approach this… we don’t want to diminish his stuff,” Kanzler explained. “He does have electric stuff, and his ceiling is extremely high given his physical profile so we’re going to be patient.”

Looking Ahead

With his recovery behind him and a full season under his belt, Wiggins could be poised for significant growth in the upcoming season. Improving his command will be key to unlocking his full potential and making an impact at higher levels within the Cubs organization. The team’s patient approach underscores their belief in his high ceiling and the value he could bring in the future.