Ole Miss RHP Cade Townsend drafted by Chicago Cubs with 23rd pick of 2026 MLB Draft

OXFORD, Miss. (WLOX) — A former Ole Miss Rebel heard his name called in the first round of the 2026 MLB Draft.

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Rebels right-handed pitcher Cade Townsend was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the first round with the 23rd pick.

The 21-year-old Townsend enjoyed a fantastic sophomore season with Ole Miss, earning 2026 Golden Spikes Semifinalist status and All-SEC Second Team honors while operating primarily as the Rebels’ Saturday pitcher.

During his 2026 sophomore season, he had a 5-3 record, striking out 88 batters, and maintained a 3.94 ERA.

Scouts compliment Townsend on a wicked slider and a fastball that tends to reach the late 90s.

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