Early Life and Amateur Career
Born on August 30, 2000, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Luke Justice Little developed a passion for baseball at a young age. He attended East Mecklenburg High School, where he honed his pitching skills, eventually leading him to play college baseball at San Jacinto College in Texas. During his collegiate career, Little gained attention for his impressive fastball, which reportedly reached speeds up to 105 mph, making him a standout prospect.
Professional Career
In the 2020 Major League Baseball draft, the Chicago Cubs selected Little in the fourth round, with the 117th overall pick. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 minor league season was canceled, delaying his professional debut. In 2021, he began his professional journey with the Arizona Complex League Cubs, showcasing his potential as a powerful left-handed pitcher.
Climbing the Minor League Ranks
Over the next few years, Luke Little progressed through the Cubs’ minor league system. In 2022, he played for the Single-A Myrtle Beach Pelicans and High-A South Bend Cubs, improving his pitching and gaining experience. His performance earned promotions to Double-A Tennessee Smokies and Triple-A Iowa Cubs in 2023. During these stints, Little maintained a strong ERA and strikeout rate, solidifying his reputation as a top pitching prospect.
Major League Debut
On September 6, 2023, Luke Little made his Major League Baseball debut with the Chicago Cubs. Standing at 6 feet 8 inches tall, he tied the record for the tallest starting pitcher in Cubs history. In his initial appearances, Little demonstrated composure and effectiveness on the mound, contributing to the team’s pitching depth.
2024 Season and Beyond
Entering the 2024 season, Luke Little secured a spot in the Cubs’ opening-day bullpen. On April 3, 2024, he made his first major league start, delivering a solid performance against the Colorado Rockies. He remained a reliable option for the Cubs, appearing in 30 games with a solid ERA. However, in July 2024, Little faced a setback due to a left shoulder strain, which placed him on the injured list. Despite this challenge, his early contributions underscored his potential as a key player in the Cubs’ pitching rotation.
Pitching Style and Strengths
Luke Little is known for his towering presence on the mound and his powerful left-handed delivery. His fastball, which has been clocked at exceptional speeds, is complemented by a developing slider and changeup, adding depth to his pitching arsenal. His ability to generate strikeouts and induce ground balls has been a significant asset throughout his career.
Future Outlook
As of January 2025, Luke Little is focused on recovery and returning to full health. With his track record and the Cubs’ backing, he is expected to play a key role in their future pitching. Fans and analysts are eager to see him develop further at the major league level.
Conclusion
Luke Little’s path from a North Carolina high school standout to a Cubs pitcher showcases dedication and perseverance. His quick rise through the minors and strong MLB debut showcase his potential as a future baseball star. As he overcomes challenges and refines his skills, Little remains a player to watch in the coming seasons.
