Cubs Roster Profiles: Ian Stewart

As the 2012 season approaches, Cubbies Crib is profiling each and every member of the Cubs forty man roster. Today, we are talking about Ian Stewart.

The third baseman came over from the Rockies to the Cubs with Casey Weathers this off season in exchange for Tyler Colvin and DJ LeMahieu. His career best year in terms of power and run production came in 2009, when he had 25 home runs and 70 RBI. However, Stewart has yet to finish a Major League season with a batting average over .260.

2011 Recap

Stewart also had to deal with injuries that limited his 2011 season. Mix in a demotion to the Rockies’ AAA affiliate, and you do not have to be a rocket scientist to conclude that he had a bad year. The lowlights from his limited action included no home runs and only six RBI in 122 at bats.

2012 Outlook

So why in the world did the new front office trade for Stewart? There is the saying that a change of scenery can do a player good, and the acquisition of the former Rockie would fit the bill. Stewart represents a defensive upgrade over the departed Aramis Ramirez, and his power from the left side would fit nicely in a Cubs line up that seems to have been looking for some left handed pop since Henry Rodriguez patrolled left field.

His power should translate nicely from Coors Field to Wrigley. Assuming he is healthy and back on track, a 20 homer season would not be unrealistic. He has yet to launch a long ball this Spring, but he is being productive at the plate as far as Spring Training numbers go.

On a roster that is lacking pop with the departure of Ramirez and Carlos Pena, Stewart has the opportunity to snatch a middle of the order spot in the line up. In terms of power, his only real competition would be Alfonso Soriano, Bryan LaHair, and Geo Soto

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After last season, Stewart really only has one way to go and that is up. With the Cubs basically having given up a similar player in Colvin, who also could use a change of scenery to bounce back, there is no pressure and expectation on either Stewart or the organization for him to suddenly be the savior.