Chicago Cubs News: Consistency key for Baez; Schwarber’s got speed?

Defensive consistency will be a key for the Chicago Cubs’ Javier Baez this season. And the added speed of Kyle Schwarber could be a game changer for the Cubs.

It didn’t take long for the Chicago Cubs‘ Javier Baez to show off in the field. But the Cubs are going to need that on a consistent basis for Baez to keep moving forward. With Ben Zobrist willing to take a step back and embrace whatever role helps the Cubs win, it might be time for Baez to shine. It’s very much the same on offense. Baez has shown great promise but has to learn to lay off the sliders. This will be the key not only to Baez’s success but that of the Cubs infield.

When Kyle Schwarber swiped two bags against the San Francisco Giants, you might not have thought too much about it. It’s spring training. Pitchers aren’t holding runners. Neither of those would be right, of course. And even if Schwarber presents the possibility as he did against the Giants, the Cubs might be in business.

Adbert Alzolay is looking at a tall task with the Cubs. The rotation appears to be set through 2020, so cracking it might be tough. But it’s possible that Alzoloay could take a similar route as Chris Sale on his way through the majors. Sale started in the bullpen for the White Sox, even working as a closer for a little bit. Eventually, he became the starter he is now. But maybe Alzolay could see time for the Cubs in the pen before making the jump to the rotation?

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Defensive consistency key for Baez‘ – Cubbies Crib

‘Speedy Schwarber could change everything’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Alzolay could start as a reliever to help Cubs’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Wilson joins the heavy hitters in batting practice’ – ESPN

‘Cubs eyeing return to World Series’ – MLB.com

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Next: How does the rotation shake out?

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