Are the 2011 Chicago Cubs Starlin Castro's Team?
The 2011 Chicago Cubs are a collection of solid players who have had varying levels of success in the major leagues. Some are former all-stars whose careers are winding down, others are glue guys who play hard every day but rarely provide any highlight moments.
Ask the average fan who the key players are on the Cubs' roster and the responses will be very different. Some may suggest Carlos Zambrano, Ryan Dempster, maybe even Marlon Byrd.
Could it be possible the youngest player on the Cubs roster, 21-year old shortstop Starlin Castro, is in fact its driving force?
Castro’s performance during the 2011 Cactus League has been outstanding. The young Dominican is batting .351 with four homeruns and 15 runs batted in 57 at bats this spring.
Even though defense is not the strongest part of Castro’s game, it is showing slow and steady improvement through his work with Cubs infield instructor Ivan DeJesus.
As long as Castro can make the routine plays when needed, and occasionally turn a tough double-play, his defensive liabilities will not be enough of a concern to cancel out what he can bring to the offense on a daily basis.
Castro will likely bat second in the order, behind veteran Japanese right fielder Kosuke Fukudome. If Fukudome can consistently reach base, Castro will have multiple opportunities this summer to be an offensive catalyst, starting rallies that the potent middle third of the order can take advantage of.
It has been noted this spring that Castro’s natural power at the plate also is on the upswing.
While he may not be a 20-run home run hitter at this point in his career, due to his natural swing mechanics, Castro has the potential to be this type of hitter as he ages and becomes more confident at the plate.
Starlin Castro’s ability to hit for average, play consistent defense and create offensive rallies will be key to the Chicago Cubs’ success in the summer of 2011.
Is anyone else more important to the Cubs than the young shortstop?
Follow Technorati