Ian Stewart starts offseason workout – MLB News
Chicago Cubs third baseman Ian Stewart has resumed offseason workouts after he underwent surgery in July due to the soreness in left wrist. He is said to be working with Hall of Famer Rod Carew.
After the wrist injury and subsequent surgery, these workouts are a positive development. The persistent injury during the last season did not let the player display the kind of performance with bat as was being expected and needed given the fact that the Cubs were struggling offensively as well.
Stewart had .201 average in the 55 games that he played, hitting five home runs and 17 RBIs.
Initially, there was some uncertainty whether or not the team would retain him after he became a non-tendered player on November. 30. However, as things moved on, the Cubs signed him last week in $2 million with $500,000 in incentive. The past season, he had made $2.237 million.
Stewart seemed happy not only with the contract but also with the fact that he has been making progress to regain his fitness and form.
His tweet after the deal read: "Glad to be healthy and back with the Cubs. The support from the Cubs organization and the fans has been incredible. Thank you all so much."
Having made his debut back in 2007, Stewart over the years has worked hard to retain his place in the team. Even though consistency has been elusive, assiduous dedication remained an easily discernable feature throughout these times.
He has played a total of 487 Major League games, having had 1421 at-bats, having .232 average with 59 home runs and 204 RBIs.
Prior to re-signing Ian Stewart, the Cubs weighed all their options including considering the name of Jeff Keppinger. But it was eventually Stewart who was back as the third baseman.
If the Cubs struggled as a whole this past season, offensive spark was conspicuously missing. By retaining the player, what the Cubs have tried to ensure is to keep the combination of players intact. The teamwork, therefore, will be a crucial factor in determining the team’s success in the upcoming season.
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