Chicago Cubs’ Arismendy Alcantara learned on the job in ’14

Chicago Cubs fans have been waiting for the highly-touted prospects to make their Major League debuts. Not many expected Arismendy Alcantara to be the first of the group.

The recently turned 23-year-old utility man made his big league debut with the Cubs on July 9 against the Cincinnati Reds when Darwin Barney was placed on the paternity list.

His debut was less than memorable, as Alcantara went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts against the Reds. But Alcantara followed that up with a four hit game, including a double and a triple with three RBIs in a 6-4 win.

Alcantara would get his first career home run against the Atlanta Braves, and for a smaller player, surprised many with his 10 home runs in 70 games.

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At the time of his call-up, most thought it was a temporary move. But after some shuffling of moves, Alcantara found himself still there. Once former Gold Glove winner Darwin Barney was sent to the Los Angeles Dodgers, it was apparent he was there to stay. The trade of Barney opened up playing time at second base, but the Cubs also wanted to get Alcantara some time in center field. He spent 21 games at second base, but ended up starting 48 in center.

While essentially learning on the job, Alcantara recorded 111 putouts, with two assists while committing five errors and a .958 fielding percentage. He clearly has a better feel for the infield, as he committed only one error and a .989 fielding percentage.

Alcantara’s power was on display during the month of September where he connected on five long-balls, driving in 12 RBIs despite a soft .195/.238/.347 batting line.

There is clearly an upside to his talent, but he’s going to have to make the adjustments next season to stay part of the Cubs outfield. With the excess of potential talent in the middle of the infield on the farm, the outfield is his best chance. When Alcantara’s swing is true, it’s one of the prettiest, which is why he has shown the surprising power for a smaller build player. It’s a solid, level swing crreating alot of backspin on the ball with lots of carry.

Alcantara is going to be a part of the group competing for time in a Cubs outfield that may only get more crowded as the season goes on. The margin of error has to be minimal.