Cubs approach the DH

The Chicago Cubs have had two interleague series so far. One with the White Sox and one with the Cleveland Indians. Both of these series have been at home. Next week, starting on Tuesday they have two interleague series on the road at American League parks. This means the Cubs will have to use the DH. I am personally not a big fan of the DH because it takes away some of the strategy to the game. There is one benefit to it though. That is more playing time for two of the Cubs youngster’s who are more offensive minded players and aren’t great defensive players. This is Micah Hoffpauir and Jake Fox.

Micah Hoffpauir is first basemen by trait and is pretty good defensively at first base. He is okay in the outfield, but doesn’t have great speed or a good arm, but he is adequate. Jake Fox came up as a catcher, but they quickly learned he can’t catch, and doesn’t have a position in the National League. He can play first base, corner outfield, and some third base recently, but isn’t that good defensively at any position. When he shows everyone that he can hit the Cubs can trade him to an American league team to DH.

Lou has said he likes Fox and Hoffpauir bat so he will make sure they get more time playing time during interleague play where the DH is in effect. He says they may not DH, but play first or the outfield so the regulars can get a little break. Fox has been good as a pinch hitter, but has gone hitless in his two starts this season. His most recent start was Friday at third base, where he is a defensive liability, but Lou will continue to start him at third against left handed pitchers. Today Hoffpauir had a pinch hit two run homerun. Hopefully both of them will seize the moment when they get more playing time. I like both players and think they both can hit and be every day hitter’s when given the opportunity.