Kane Kepley is proving why the Chicago Cubs took a chance on him with their second round pick in the 2025 MLB Draft.
The former UNC baseball standout has wasted no time acclimating to professional baseball, showcasing the skills that instantly made him a fan favorite in Chapel Hill.
Through 9 professional games, Kepley's offensive production is simply insane.
Kane Kepley’s first 9 games for Myrtle Beach have been exciting. He’s gotten on base 24 times with 13 hits, 6 walks, 5 HBPs. .382 BA and .533 OBP. 6 steals, 2 triples and he’s been really good in the OF.
— mike london (@mikelondonpost3) August 17, 2025
Yes, Kepley has found a way on base 24 times over that span, which, if you do the math, equates to him being on base just over 2.5 times per game. While he's putting great swings on the ball (registering 13 hits thus far), his plate discipline has been well-on display, as he's already drawn six walks and has been hit by five pitches.
Are we even surprised about the hit by pitches?!
BREAKING: Kane Kepley can play some ball! 🤯 pic.twitter.com/MMUG8Kap4k
— Myrtle Beach Pelicans (@Pelicanbaseball) August 16, 2025
While he's doing a little bit of everything at the plate, he continues to play strong defense in the outfield. He has seen time in both center field and right field, as the Cubs organization seems to be comfortable with him playing anywhere in the outfield.
Currently playing at Single-A, Kepley might make a case for a call-up before the 2025 season comes to a close. If he continues to produce at this pace, the former Tar Heel has the ability to rise up the Cubs' minor league system quickly.
Some guys need time to adjust from the college game to professional baseball. As we saw him do at North Carolina (when he transferred from Liberty), Kepley doesn't need an adjustment period: he is simply ready to contribute whenever he takes the field.