It has been genuinely refreshing to see the Cubs play real baseball so far this spring. They took two out of three from the Rockies and two out of three from the Reds. More importantly, they played these games with serious attention. They were able to come from behind on several occasions. Also, they have shown a lot more patience at the plate, especially late in the game when it is really necessary to start an inning by getting on base.
It's pretty early going, but the last time I noticed this kind of play was in early 2008.
A lot of the improvement may be due to some maturity and confidence, but I think that it is due to coaching and management as well. Maddon really does know how to win, and, thus far, he seems to be teaching a young team the right habits.
Of some concern, though, is the rash of injuries. The bullpen has been fantastic early on, but already Grimm is on the DL, and it looks like Ramirez is heading there as well. Of the position players, LaStella and Denorfia are on the DL and Olt is hurt. The injuries to the infielders is of particular concern. Without Olt at third base, the Cubs have used Herrera at third for a few games and even used Coughlin there for a couple of innings. Herrera is not very good at 3B and his inexperience may have cost Arrieta a hit or two in his one bad inning. I noticed that Maddon had switched Alcantara and Herrera for Wednesday's game.
All these injuries to infielders may hasten the arrival of Bryant, especially if Ramirez goes to the DL. Odds are against Friday, though. The Cubs almost never bring up a rookie like Bryant at home.
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