In recent years, the Cubs’ inability to develop homegrown pitching has reached such mythical proportions that it has become part of the banter in minor-league clubhouses and bullpens throughout the farm system.
“It’s well documented,” said Jason McLeod, the Cubs’ top scouting and player development executive. “It’s been such a topic for discussion we talk about it openly with our minor league guys, wanting our pitchers to take that challenge and see that there are opportunities for them to take some major steps, and come up here and be part of what this club’s trying to do and insert themselves into a playoff-type environment, where they can help the team.