Chicago Cubs: Ranking the top 5 moments of Kris Bryant’s career

Chicago Cubs: Top 5 Kris Bryant Moments – #5: Called up to the Show

On April 17, 2015, a star was born. Kris Bryant was called up by the Chicago Cubs in what turned into being one of the best decisions they ever made. A heated debate over potential service time manipulation was overshadowed, at least briefly, with the news of his promotion – which was preceded by a billboard in Wrigleyville anticipating his arrival.

Prior to being drafted by Chicago, Bryant spent three years between Chatham College and the University of San Diego as a Torero. In his collegiate career, he raked to the tune of a .353/.486/.702 line with 54 home runs and 154 batted across 172 total games played.

Once in the Cubs’ minor league system, Bryant continued to tear it up with an otherworldly slash line of .325/.424/.661 with 56 home runs and 156 driven in a total of 187 games. There was never any doubt about what type of player they had on their hands as he worked his way through the ranks. This guy was clearly the real deal.

By the time Bryant was finally called up, the hype had reached an all-time peak and he did not disappoint. Although his debut was forgettable, with a trio of punchouts, his rookie campaign was unforgettable. The former first-rounder torched opposing pitching en route to National League Rookie of the Year honors. It’s safe to say no one will ever forget his arrival to the bigs and everything that followed.