CHICAGO (670 The Score) -- The importance of Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant's recent hot streak goes beyond the National League Player of the Week honors that he was bestowed with Monday.
What's significant is that Bryant has stepped up with shortstop Javier Baez (thumb fracture) sidelined since Sept. 1 and first baseman Anthony Rizzo (ankle) now out for at least a week after he was injured Sunday.
Bryant had a cortisone shot in his bothersome right knee on Sept. 8, and he responded in a big way. He hit .500 (11-of-22) with five homers and 13 RBIs in the past six games, which coincided with his return.
Bryant admitted being free of discomfort in the knee has made a big difference. Beyond that, a mechanical change in his approach has been vital as well, helping re-establish balance and provide him with more pull power.
"I am surprised you noticed the change," Bryant told 670 The Score. "I decided to get off of my toes in the stance and approach the at-bat more flat-footed. This has taken some pressure off of the knees and maybe given me more balance. I think that has helped."
Bryant's at-bats have been much more potent, with his power and slugging results in the recent stretch reminding of when he was in his top form in the 2015 and 2016 seasons. Bryant has long been a harsh critic of himself, even while acknowledging baseball is a rough sport for someone who tries to be a perfectionist.
"I have been that way my whole life," Bryant said. "With school work, I didn't need my mom or dad to tell me to do my homework. If I didn't get good grades, I was mad at myself. I am just never satisfied with what I do. It can be a good thing and a bad thing. I do try to use it to my advantage the best I can."
Bryant also credited manager Joe Maddon for his positive reinforcement and consistent communication while Bryant went through a slump in late July and parts of August. Bryant left a game on July 24 with right knee soreness and struggled afterward. He has sat out three games in September in an effort to give his knee a rest.
"I really appreciate that he has stepped up his communication, showing me all these numbers attached to my success," Bryant said of Maddon. "The hitting coaches are doing the same thing. Sometimes it's nice having that positive reinforcement when you' re in a rut and don't feel great. You feel like it's the end of the world and everybody hates you. When you are surrounded by a great manager and coaches, it makes it easier on me. This is a game based on the failure, and I need to think that way to get the best out of me. I am so hard on myself, but that is just who I am."
Bryant has played through both pain and scrutiny this season, which is why his recent breakout has also brought him a sense of relief.
"It's been a good week," Bryant said. "You feel better stepping up and saying something isn't right and do something about it. Sometimes people are afraid to speak up and say that. You might feel you are not going to look tough. You have to do what's best for the team and at that point, I was hurting the team by not saying anything. I am glad I finally did."
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.
