Cubs Roundup, Oct 15: 2026 Farm Updates, Steve Bartman Game, Holmes' Performance

[North Side Baseball]

Here is some of the latest Cubs analysis and history from around the internet. The roundup covers 2026 Cubs prospects like Pedro Ramírez and Josiah Hartshorn, the Steve Bartman game, Pete Crow-Armstrong's 40-40 season, NLCS team contrasts, Casey Mize's contract issues, and Clay Holmes' struggles with the Cubs.

• These players stood out in Cubs’ farm system in ‘26 (MLB.com). Notes the standout players from the Cubs’ 2026 farm system, highlighting Pedro Ramírez’s rise to the majors, Owen Ayers’ strong performance as a prospect, Brooks Caple’s pitching success, and Josiah Hartshorn’s standout season with 23 home runs and 112 RBIs.
• Today in Chicago History: The Steve Bartman game (Game 6 of the 2003 NLCS) at Wrigley Field (Chicago Tribune $$$). Looks back at the 2003 NLCS Game 6 at Wrigley Field, focusing on the pivotal moment when fan Steve Bartman deflected a foul ball, leading to a critical error by Cubs shortstop Alex Gonzalez and a subsequent Marlins comeback.
• Pete Crow-Armstrong draws impressive comparison from Andrew McCutchen that Cubs fans will love (Cubbies Crib). Notes that Pete Crow-Armstrong's historic 40-40 season and defensive prowess have drawn a comparison from Andrew McCutchen, who highlighted Crow-Armstrong's flair for the dramatic and batting stance, similar to his own early career, while noting McCutchen's peak performance in 2014 (.314/.410/.542, 169 wRC+) and Crow-Armstrong's 2023 slash line (.280/.372/.570, 157 wRC+).
• A Cubs fan guide to the Championship Series (Bleed Cubbie Blue). Notes the contrast between the Milwaukee Brewers and Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLCS, highlighting the Brewers' lower payroll and success through smart drafting and trades, while the Dodgers rely on high spending and star power, with both teams having similar offensive and pitching metrics.
• Casey Mize contract projections make a potential Cubs pursuit look like a massive mistake (Cubbies Crib). Argues that Casey Mize's contract projections, including a six-year, $115 million deal from Spotrac, suggest pursuing him would be a mistake due to his inconsistent performance, limited innings, and poor 2023 season with a 7.46 ERA and injury.
• A few thoughts about the Cubs and Clay Holmes (Bleed Cubbie Blue). Notes the Cubs' acquisition of Clay Holmes from the Mets, highlighting his poor performance (4.25 ERA, 1.295 WHIP in nine starts) and increased walk rate (11.8%) with the Cubs compared to 8.4% with the Mets, while questioning his future with the team and $12 million player option.