Chicago Cubs’ roster announced, Blake DeWitt secures a spot
When the Chicago Cubs unveiled the Opening Day roster on Friday, March 30, it had a few surprises for the observers. Whether it be termed a surprise or not, Blake DeWitt finally earned his spot in the place, thanks to his extraordinary show this spring.
Once the Cactus League started, DeWitt had made it clear that he had to earn his way in the game. He seems to have succeeded in whatever plans he had. Over the past few weeks, he has rotated from one spot to another, showing the versatility he has in the
possession.
"I've said from the beginning the goal was to come back here and have a good spring," DeWitt said. "The only way to do that is relax, have fun. You've got to earn your way in this game. Nothing will be given to you and the only way you'll achieve it is hard
work. It's worked out."
Among other players who have made their way into the roster are David DeJesus, Darwin Barney, Bryan LaHair, Starlin Castro, Ryan Dempster, Geovany Soto, Marlon Byrd and Ian Stewart.
DeWitt, over the course of past weeks, has played second, third and outfield. With his ability to switch without much difficulty, he indeed has a strong case to present.
As for the 162 games of the season, he has everything clear in his mind. "You play 162 games, and a good portion of those 162 are decided by little things like [advancing runners]," DeWitt said.
The roster may have a lot of critics and supporters as well. But the Chicago Cubs really want to be on the right side of the rivalry this time round. They had a thoroughly disappointing season the past year, something they would – at best, like to avoid.
By announcing the roster, the Cubs have also pronounced their readiness for the bigger challenges ahead. They want the past to be a closed chapter, but a learning lesson as well. It will, nonetheless, have to be seen if they will write something new and
different in history by transforming into a well-built defence and robust offence.
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