RADIO
It’s no secret that Chicago Cubs mega prospect Kris Bryant could be on the verge of superstardom, especially after being the 2014 Minor League Player of the Year last season. That doesn’t mean he’s content. In fact, it looks like the 22-year-old is open to expanding his game, having recently said he would be willing to play outfield this spring.
"I had my first meeting with Kris today," said new Cubs manager Joe Maddon. "He was very impressive and very mature for a kid of 23 [years old]. He understands what he is doing really well. He is accepting of working in the outfield, very accepting of that."
Bryant is still considered Chicago’s third baseman of the future, but the decision to have him get some outfield work in can only add versatility to his game, at least on the defensive side of the ball. He’s coming off an outstanding year at the plate in which he slugged .325/.438/.661 with 43 HR, 110 RBI, and 15 SB in 138 games between Double-A and Triple-A.
As remarkably talented as Bryant is, it appears the Cubs will be keeping him at Triple-A Iowa for at least 21 days -- so that the club can gain an extra year of control -- even if he has the most impressive of spring training showings. Bryant is projected to be called up in late-April or perhaps early-May, at which point he will begin what should be a very special Major League career. His transition could ultimately be the biggest factor in how far the Cubs go this season.
