MIAMI -- The Cubs are wasting little time in signing their picks from the recently completed 2017 Major League Draft. After announcing the signing of their top pick, left-handed pitcher Brendon Little, on Thursday, they locked up second-rounder Cory Abbott on Friday.
A right-handed pitcher from Loyola Marymount, Abbott becomes the 14th pick signed by the Cubs from this year's Draft. Abbott was signed for the full pick value ($901,900), according to MLBPipeline.com's Jonathan Mayo, after his stock climbed before the Draft.
The 67th overall selection, Abbott added another effective pitch to his arsenal, a slider. Clocked at a top speed of 93 mph on his fastball, Abbott developed a nasty slider to go with his curveball and changeup.
At 6-feet-2 and 210 pounds, the 21-year-old Abbott posted a 17-8 record over three years at LMU, with a 2.69 ERA over 56 appearances, including 28 starts. He struck out 196 batters over 217 2/3 innings.
Abbott's role with the Cubs is uncertain, but middle relief appears to be most suitable if not a back-end starter.