Mike Olt added to Chicago Cubs roster after rehab assignment

After a late-season demotion to Triple-A Iowa seems to have addressed some of the issues affecting Chicago Cubs infielder Mike Olt.

The corner infielder will rejoin the big league club tonight, looking to make an impact in the season’s final month. According to Bruce Miles of the Daily Herald, Olt is excited to be back in Chicago and ready to make an impact.

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In 72 games with Chicago this season, Olt showcased the power that made him a touted prospect in the Texas Rangers system prior to the 2013 season, hitting 12 home runs– which is tied for the top mark amongst all National League rookies. However, he struggled to make contact or reach base consistently, with a line of .139/.222/.353, striking out 84 times in 212 plate appearances.

"“I wasn’t picking up the pitches well; it had nothing to do with my eyesight,” he said. “I created a lot of bad habits with my swing. I had a huge leg kick, and my head was moving a lot. Going back to Triple-A, I started with the basics. I widened my stance up. I don’t have a leg kick as much anymore. I’ve been more consistent figuring out if I’m on time or not. That was the big problem up there. I couldn’t judge if I was on time with the pitcher until maybe the fourth pitch. By that time, you’re 0-2.”"

With Iowa, Olt rediscovered his swing, batting .302/.348/.585 with seven home runs and 24 RBIs. He’ll likely see time at both third and first base, especially with the injury to Anthony Rizzo, who, by most accounts, is done for the season with a  lower back injury. Chris Valaika, who has been starting at first in place of Rizzo, has struggled offensively, batting just .208/.266/.347 in 22 games – leaving an opening for Olt to step into the starting lineup.

"“I’m excited,” he said after finishing batting practice. “I want to end the year on a good note. Start fresh. I’m going to try to go in there with a whole-other-season (mindset). Just finish this month strong and build from what I learned this season and get strong and better for next year.”"