5 Chicago Cubs players to keep an eye on down the stretch

5 Chicago Cubs to keep an eye on down the stretch: #5 – David Bote

David Bote was drafted in the 18th round of the 2012 draft at the age of 19. Before getting called up to the Majors in 2018, Bote slashed a career .261/.349/.407 over the span of nine years in the Minors. He was first called up to the big leagues in 2018 where he had a total of 184 at-bats, batting .239 and appearing in 74 games.

Many remember him for his monumental game-winning ninth-inning grand slam against the Washington Nationals. Shortly after, he hit another walk-off home run, securing his reputation as Mr. Clutch.

In 2019, Bote and the Cubs agreed to a five-year, $15 million extension, good through the 2024 season with two team options for 2025 and 2026. Following the extension, Bote saw his best slash line of .257/.362/.422, with 11 home runs and 41 batted in over the course of 127 games played.

Since then, Bote has struggled. In 2020 he batted a mere .200/.303/.408, appearing in 45 of the 60 games. This year, in 60 games played, he has a line of .202/.279/.344 with six homers and 28 RBI in 183 at-bats.

The Cubs need David Bote to be a solid contributor moving forward. He has shown flashes of his true potential here and there but has yet to put it together and stay on a solid run. With the core gone from Chicago, now is his time to shine. Hopefully he will take advantage of the opportunity he will be given.