Jeff Samardzija is the Cubs' most high-profile prospect, and not just because of the five-year, $10 million contract he signed on Jan. 19. There are seven first-round picks in Cubs camp this spring, including 2006 selection Tyler Colvin. But the New York Times didn't send any reporters to interview any of them. He could be fast tracked to the major league team. Samardzija is Notre Dame's all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns, and this spring, he's been shagging fly balls and taking part in pitchers' fielding drills. He was projected as a first-round pick in the NFL draft, which is why most teams passed on the right-handed pitcher last June. The Cubs picked him in the fifth round. "I think when he was signed, our top scouts felt -- assuming he stays healthy and progresses the way they anticipate -- in two years time he could be right here in Wrigley," Cubs manager Lou Piniella said. "Obviously, he has the physical attributes. Plus, he's an intelligent kid and Larry [Rothschild, pitching coach] has talked to him about minor adjustments in his delivery, and he's picked them up well."