The Cubs played two games Saturday, won one against the White Sox and lost one to the Dodgers. Jason Hammel had a very, very good day. Dexter Fowler homered. Willson Contreras shined on defense and at the plate. And Javier Baez made an impressive play at first base.
Both games featured highlight plays from several of the players Joe Maddon will depend on to win games when they actually count in three weeks. Two of the top prospects made excellent plays in the field.
It may only be Spring Training, but Jason Hammel looked very good … like the first half, pre-injury Hammel that Chris Bosio predicted.
Anthony Rizzo delivered in the first inning against the White Sox. A two-run single through the right side with the bases loaded.
John Andreoli bunted in a run … in a Spring Training game. Andreoli has been rather impressive early in the spring games.
Dexter Fowler with a good route on a ball in left center.
And Dexter Fowler went yard for the second time in the Cactus League. It wasn’t a cheap shot.
Javier Baez made the first highlight-reel play of the night in Glendale. Baez made the play at first like a middle infielder … and it was an excellent play.
Willson Contreras nailed Micah Johnson at second base with a perfect throw … excellent pop time and Addison Russell didn’t have to move the glove.
And Contreras even caught Chase Utley by surprise at first base.
Albert Almora Jr. makes playing center field look easy.
The Cubs dropped the Hammel on the White Sox in the 9-2 win and Willson Contreras put on a show in the 6-5 spring loss to the Dodgers.
The Cubs have only single games on the schedule for the remainder of Spring Training. Opening Night in Anaheim is three weeks from Monday.