• Full name Nicholas Edward Burdi
  • Born 01/19/1993 in Hinsdale, IL
  • Profile Ht.: 6'3" / Wt.: 225 / Bats: R / Throws: R
  • School Louisville
  • Debut 09/11/2018
  • Drafted in the 2nd round (46th overall) by the Minnesota Twins in 2014 (signed for $1,218,800).
    View Draft Report
    Burdi ranks as the hardest thrower in college baseball, making him a first-round candidate despite being limited to a relief role. Drafted in the 24th round by the Twins out of high school in 2011, Burdi has pitched out of Louisville's bullpen for three years, becoming the Cardinals' all-time saves leader. He does it with pure power. He's athletic with tremendous arm strength and runs his fastball into the 96-100 mph range consistently, maintaining that velocity over two- and three-inning outings. He has reached up to 103, and his fastball earns 80 grades from most scouts on the 20-80 scale. Burdi's slider gives him a second premium pitch, reaching as high as 92-93 mph and sitting 87-90 with depth. One area scout called it "hard, late and unfair." Scouts don't consider his delivery and mentality suited for starting. He has learned to repeat his delivery better and should have enough control to close, and he could reach the major leagues in short order.

Top Rankings

Organization Prospect Rankings

Draft Prospects

Best Tools List

  • Rated Best Fastball in the Midwest League in 2014

Scouting Reports

Career Transactions

  • Chicago Cubs transferred RHP Nick Burdi from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day injured list. Appendicitis.
  • Chicago Cubs placed RHP Nick Burdi on the 15-day injured list retroactive to May 21, 2023. Appendicitis.
  • Chicago Cubs selected the contract of RHP Nick Burdi from Iowa Cubs.
  • Chicago Cubs selected the contract of RHP Nick Burdi from Iowa Cubs.
  • Chicago Cubs invited non-roster RHP Nick Burdi to spring training.
  • RHP Nick Burdi roster status changed by Chicago Cubs.

Download our app

Read the newest magazine issue right on your phone