Chicago Cubs: For Kris Bryant, leadership is key in 2019

Chicago Cubs: Returning to form

Bryant’s down year last year is not his fault. Bryant has also had just one down year since arriving in the show. Throughout Bryant’s young career to this point, he has been worth 23.1 WAR. Impressive showing as his years from 2015-17 saw him earn Rookie of the Year honors, an MVP, and help lead the Cubs to their first world championship in 108 years.

Last year, Bryant saw his strikeout rate increase to his highest since his rookie season, and the lingering effects from the shoulder injury decreased the power numbers as he hit just 12 home runs over 457 plate appearances. His hard contact percentage also saw a significant decrease from 40.3% in the year before to a career-low 32.8%.

Nevertheless, things are once again looking up for the young All-Star and former MVP. Reports from last month state that Bryant is back to training without restrictions and according to a piece from Mark Gonzales in the Chicago Tribune, General Manager Jed Hoyer was quoted about Bryant’s progress.

“He’s excited and ready to go. He looks good.”

While the Cubs still found great success last season, Bryant returning to form will move mountains for this franchise in the right direction once again and help them to regain their dominance in the division.