Josiah Hartshorn, the top prospect for the Chicago Cubs, may be on a faster track to the big leagues than you may have expected. The 19-year-old made his pro debut a year after his record-breaking signing bonus as a sixth-round draft pick out of high school, and his latest achievement may signal his MLB debut with the Cubs as early as 2027.
Josiah Hartshorn Wins Gold Glove
Cubs fans have heard a lot about Hartshorn’s bat in 2026, but earlier this week, he earned recognition for his defense. The switch-hitter, who saw action in the infield and outfield, was named a 2026 Rawlings Minor League Gold Glove Award winner at first base.
At three minor league levels, Hartshorn showed his defensive versatility, starting 58 games at first base, 35 in right field, and 21 in center field. This Gold Glove Award was given to Hartshorn after he was compared to every other minor leaguer, not just at A-Ball, where he spent most of the 2026 season.
Given his natural athleticism and ability to handle first base at a high level, the Cubs may also be tempted to promote Hartshorn sometime in 2027, given their potential lack of production at corner outfield. Right now, the team has Matt Shaw and Pedro Ramirez penciled in as their starting right and left fielders, respectively, as Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ are now free agents. Even if the Cubs did sign a proven veteran for the outfield, it would be quite surprising to see the front office invest into two starting caliber outfielders, which would raise the pressure on Shaw and Ramirez to perform.
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If the young players struggle and Hartshorn continues to shine in the minor leagues, he could realistically make his MLB debut in 2027 if the Cubs need an offensive jolt.
Hartshorn ended the 2026 season at Double-A. In his age-19 season, the switch-hitter posted a .284/.407/.518 slash line with 23 home runs and 17 stolen bases in 125 games. He’ll gain plenty of attention throughout the 2027 season, and fans might be calling for his debut by the summer. At 20-years-old, that would be an incredible feat for the top prospect in the Cubs’ farm system.
