DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL Central—CHC's Infield Outlook
Sep 12 2013
As the early cornerstones of the rebuilding effort, Anthony Rizzo (1B, CHC) and Starlin Castro (SS, 1B) were 2013 disappointments—particularly Castro, whose career-low bb% and ct% and .250-ish BA/xBA combo were discouraging signs from a four-year MLB veteran. But their contracts—both are extended through 2019—and ages (23) are likely to give them extended opportunities to rebound.
But with plenty of fast-tracking infield prospects, the Cubs may have options everywhere sooner than some observers expect. Middle-infielder Arismendy Alcántara (2B/SS, CHC) probably needs more minor league time this spring to work on his contact. But 16 HR, a 31/6 SB/CS and 62 BB over his first 500+ AB in Double-A point to a broad skill set....
Almost!
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