Cubs Shopping Blake DeWitt?

With the latest injury to Alfonso Soriano, the Cubs are expected to make another roster move today. Soriano in all likelihood will land on the 15 day disabled list, and Tyler Colvin is viewed as an likely option to be called up. Ryan Flaherty is also an option the Cubs may opt for if they chose to continue with their attempt at a youth movement. Though, whoever the Cubs call up is not expected to be the primary replacement for Soriano in Left Field.

Chicago Cubs manager Mike Quade told reporters last night that utility man Blake DeWitt will receive majority of the starts in place of Soriano. This has raised some criticism among Cubs fans as the Cubs have Lou Montanez, and Brad Snyder on their bench. Both of those players would seem to be better replacements for Soriano. Though, there is a reason that Quade may be playing DeWitt in the left field, instead of Montanez or Snyder.

With the emergence of Darwin Barney, it would appear that the 25 year old DeWitt is not a part of the long term future for the Cubs. Prior to this season, DeWitt was recognized as an infielder who could only play second and third base. As it stands, that would not be enough to make a team willing to trade for DeWitt. Hence the decision to broaden DeWitt’s capabilities by having him play in the outfield. Giving DeWitt added value to the Cubs, but more importantly, to any team that is interested in trading for him. With DeWitt now being able to play second base, third base, right field, and left field he figures to be an attractive option for teams looking for an utility man.

The writing should be on the wall that the Cubs are shopping Blake DeWitt. By playing DeWitt in the outfield, the Cubs are showing him off to other teams that may be interested. Trading DeWitt makes a lot of sense for the Cubs. For the obvious reason of opening a roster spot for one of the Cubs prospects. For instance, trading DeWitt would then give DJLeMahieu a solidified spot on the 25 man roster. One team that could be interested in DeWitt is the Boston Red Sox. The Red Sox were a rumored suitor for Jeff Baker before he was injured, so, they may have some interest in DeWitt. DeWitt and Baker figure to be two of the top trade candidates for the Cubs this season.