Call to the pen
Fansided

Cubs’ Kris Bryant to Work Out in the Outfield

By Chris Georges

facebooktwitterreddit

Cubs super-prospect Kris Bryant, who topped Keith Law’s list of top prospects for 2015, has been asked by new manager Joe Maddon to spend some time in the outfield this spring. It appears that the Cubs new manager is trying to do some of what he did with the Rays, that is, moving guys around to different positions to maximize their production.

After the trade of Luis Valbuena, it appeared that the club had freed up a spot at third base for Bryant. He could still very well end up earning that starting spot out of Spring Training, but it makes sense for the Cubs to see what kind of versatility he has going into the season.

The team’s outfield consists of mostly young guys, save for off-season acquisition Dexter Fowler. One of the corner spots seems like a lock to go to Jorge Soler, who’s immense power potential should have him batting somewhere in the middle of the lineup in 2015. The other corner spot is up for grabs, with former Rookie of the Year Chris Coghlan and prospect Arismendy Alcantara in the mix. Alcantara has the versatility to play third base as well, which presents a situation where they could have him at the hot corner and Bryant in right field.

More from MLB Prospects

As Law notes, Bryant could be a fit in right field due to his cannon of an arm. This may also be a good spot for him because he wouldn’t have to make as many quick decisions as he would at third base. His range has been decent, but not spectacular at the hot corner in the Minor Leagues. His 6 foot 5 inch frame may affect his ability to get low on ground balls as well, making right field a safer spot for his power bat to reside. It is unknown at this point whether he has the speed and tracking ability required for the outfield. If his skills are adequate, then his arm could be more of an asset than it would at third base.

The decision could likely come down to where the Cubs want to play Alcantara. His speed would be much more valuable in the outfield than at third base, but he would provide better handling of ground balls and better range in the infield than Bryant. I think that it’s a good idea for the club to kick the tires on Bryant potentially playing the outfield. However, I think that you have to give him a chance at third to show that he can handle that position. Ultimately, getting the top prospect comfortable at third will help the team in the long run, as it is easier to find a corner outfield bat than it is a third basemen.

More from Call to the Pen

Home/MLB Prospects