Chicago Cubs: Is Howie Kendrick a prospective offseason target?
By Jake Misener
![(Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fcubbiescrib-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fgetty-images-2F2016-2F04-2F1168970480-850x560-1ebf4d116f926146f99a1965b3d86700.jpg)
Chicago Cubs: Time to add some grit to the clubhouse in 2020
Given the team has guys like Ian Happ and David Bote (not to mention highly-touted prospect Nico Hoerner) in the mix at second, as well – Kendrick could fit perfectly as a guy who sees some time at second and third – and spells Rizzo at first from time to time. He knows his role – and that accepting it has played a huge role in his career year.
"“I’m not an everyday guy anymore and I know that and [Davey Martinez] knows and I’m not going to complain one bit about the way I’ve been used,” Kendrick told NBC Sports Washington last month. “When I play, I play. When I don’t, I’m ready to play and go in the game and I’ve kind of streamlined that process a little more, I’ve figured out, being in the National League how to prepare myself and be ready.”"
Coming off the bench this season, Kendrick hit .414 – including a .361/.415/.611 line in 41 plate appearances as a pinch hitter. It’s that type of grind-it-out mentality that makes me think he’d be a perfect fit with the Cubs – regardless of who’s managing the team moving forward.
Ross set to interview this week for manager role. dark. Next
We’re talking about a guy who knows what’s at stake – his last few go-rounds in Major League Baseball. Yet to win a ring, he’ll undoubtedly want a shot with a contender, where he can bring his 122 career postseason plate appearances and invaluable October experience, in hopes of closing his career on a high note.