Chicago Cubs Select 3B/1B Cole Mathis in the Second Round of 2024 MLB Draft

With the 54th pick in the second round of the 2024 MLB Draft, the Chicago Cubs selected 3B/1B Cole Mathis out of the College of Charleston (SC). Mathis marks the second collegiate corner infielder that the Cubs have selected in the 2024 MLB Draft after selecting Florida State's Cam Smith with the 14th overall pick.

Scouting Report

Mathis is a 6-foot-1, 210-pound third baseman from the College of Charleston. Although he was drafted as a third baseman, many scouts believe he is destined to play first, despite having incredible arm strength. Mathis was both a pitcher and hitter in college, but this past spring he focused more on hitting due to an elbow injury.

Mathis was an incredible reliever and displayed quality power at the collegiate level as well. This past spring, Mathis finished with 14 home runs and a .335/.472/.650 slash line. There is certainly a chance that Mathis gets a look as a two-way player, but like Matt Mervis, he might be destined to a corner infield spot full time.

Mathis' best trait is the consistent contact he makes to all fields, despite not having the "prettiest swing". In addition, the College of Charleston product has solid power as demonstrated by his long-ball numbers in college. He will be a fine addition for the Cubs at a position that is rather thin in terms of organizational depth.

Placement in Cubs' Top Prospects

Although Mathis might not be the same offensive unit that Cam Smith can be, the collegiate bat has high contract upside with reasonable power and a huge arm. Perhaps Mathis could crack the top-10 Cubs prospects, but he'll reasonably slot in somewhere around #13. As an older bat, he should have a chance to progress quickly through the minors. However, it will likely come down to finding him a defensive position before he solidifies himself as a true top prospect.

Plan For 2024

Like Cam Smith, Mathis will likely spend some time in Arizona. From there, one of the A-ball teams will be the next step. Due to his collegiate nature, both Mathis and Smith could start in Myrtle Beach and quickly make their way to South Bend. Don't be surprised if he rises through the system as quickly as Matt Shaw did after being drafted last season. Mathis could be another very exciting prospect to pair with Smith from the top of this year's draft.

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