(670 The Score) This would've been hard to imagine across the past six seasons as Cubs star Kris Bryant was the team's everyday third baseman, but he hasn't started at the hot corner in more than five weeks.
That development has come about as the Cubs have pivoted in dealing with injuries. Bryant has become a super-utilityman mostly out of necessity, as manager David Ross has asked him and a few others to play various positions and do what's best for the team. In this case, Bryant hasn't started at third base since April 20.
"You have a guy who will do anything to help the team win," Cubs infielder David Bote said of Bryant. "That is inspiring to all of us. That helps us on our mission in the clubhouse. Every single guy wants to win, so I am ready as well where they need me. Guys are coming in early and getting extra work done. That is all you can do."
Bryant has mostly played the outfield instead of third base. He has made 11 starts in left field, 11 starts in right field and five in center field. As the Cubs faced the Pirates in their series finale Thursday afternoon, Bryant made his fourth start of the season at first base. Usual first baseman Anthony Rizzo is dealing with back tightness.
Using Bryant in the outfield has been beneficial because the Cubs lack depth there and it allows Ross to get Bote and Matt Duffy more time at third base. Both have been solid contributors. That in turn also allows Nico Hoerner – when he's been healthy – to get regular playing time at second base.
"My thoughts are we have some of the best athletes in the world playing this game," Ross said. "These guys have been playing baseball for a long time and probably grew up playing multiple positions. They eventually settle into one position.
"Out of necessity, you sometimes move guys around and hope for the best. When you are short on things, you might try to get some offense in the lineup and sometimes you do the opposite. These guys' willingness to get early work in and move around has helped the game. As the game has evolved, it may have shown you are not sacrificing as much, but there are times it rears its head.
You just have to live with those moments."
Bryant is content and happy to do what's best for the Cubs, even if it brings more uncertainty to his work day. Moving around on defense hasn't affected him at all offensively, as he's having a tremendous season. Entering play Thursday, Bryant was hitting .308 with 10 homers, 28 RBIs and a .991 OPS in 44 games.
"I am using mostly the outfield gloves, but shoot, this year I am bringing four (position gloves) on the road," Bryant said. "I try to be ready for anything thrown my way. I am really enjoying playing the outfield right now. You hear different things out there, and you have a little more time to wave to a kid. It a different thing than playing third base, and I am really appreciating it."
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.
