Chicago Cubs poised to hoist plenty of hardware this season

Aug 27, 2015; San Francisco, CA, USA; Chicago Cubs infielder Kris Bryant (17) sits in the dugout before the start of the game against the San Francisco Giants at AT&T Park. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Rookie of the Year: Kris Bryant

Kris Bryant is about to complete the best statistical season for a Cubs rookie in team history. Capped off by surpassing Billy Williams for home runs in his first year, Bryant is also dominating the rest of the league’s first-timers in runs batted in, WAR and several other statistical measures.

Currently sitting on 98 RBI, Bryant has 27 more runs batted in than the next-best rookie. His 26 homers would also lead the league if the season ended today. Major League Baseball has learned to pitch to Bryant carefully knowing that he can change a game instantly, but he’s countered with the ability to adjust immediately.

Just the same as Maddon, Bryant has been every bit as good as advertised, following up his Minor League Player of the Year 2014 campaign with one of the best seasons turned in by a Cubs third baseman in years – let alone a Chicago rookie.

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