With all the negative feelings towards this Chicago team, let's focus on positives.
1.) Castro/Rizzo: Rick Renteria was brought in to change tha atmosphere and attitude of the Major League club. Additionally, it can be argued he has been brought in to help Castro. Up to this point in the season, he is doing the Job. Castro looks more and more comfortable at Short as the year goes on. His batting average isn't turning heads, but it is a HUGE improvement over last year. Letting Starlin do his thing seems to be the answer, for the hits and some flashes of that power have returned. Rizzo is in the conversation for the All-Stat game. After struggling against Lefties last year, Rizzo is putting up video game numbers this year. Things are looking up for the core.
2.) Minor League Development - Kris Bryant. Just reading his name brings chills to ever pitcher in AA. Bryant is enjoying a monster season this year, leading ever Triple Crown Category by a decent margin. Javier Baez is also turning his season around at AAA. His batting average is up to .234 after a very rough start to the season.
I understand Cub fans eagerness to see these guys at the big league level, but there is no need to rush them in order to bring in fans. Baez needs to work on the 30% K rate. Bryant may be a hitting machine, but a decision needs to be made what position he wants to play. With Renteria playing match ups and rotating a long bench at the MLB, Bryant and Baez can continue to benefit with everyday play.
3.) Rennovations- Even with new obstacles and delays, this project is happening and it WILL have a great effect on the team. After touring the Wrigley facilities my self this past fall, saying upgraded player facilities is needed is the understatement of the Millenium. Let's get this going.
162 games. That's how many these guys get to play. With recent improved play and offensive execution (7-3 in their last 10), this team is better to watch then in years past. The change is coming. And it will likely be everything we hoped for.
Til next time Vine Lovers,
CC
