Chicago Cubs: Five potential heroes in the NL Wild Card game

Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Addison Russell

His numbers haven’t been as head-turning as another Cubs’ rookie, but don’t let that deceive you on how good Russell has been this year. His .242 average won’t make you excited, but Russell hit 13 home runs and knocked in 54 runs–while spending most of the season batting in the nine spot. That’s a credit to the Cubs for hitting well from top to bottom, but his offense is simply the icing. It’s Russell’s defense that will turn heads, make you look twice, rewind and more.

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Russell has made more than his fair share of plays this season that were highlight worthy. After a rough beginning at second when he was playing out of position, the move to shortstop helped him to shine. Diving stops to end games, tagging guys between the legs, unreal range.

I don’t know if I’m sure what will be Russell’s “hero” moment. His bat is capable, but I really think it’s going to be a play in the field that will stop us in our tracks and make us say “Wow. He just won this game for us”.

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