The Chicago Cubs sent Kyle Schwarber to the minors to get some work on his swing. He rewards them with his first home runs since returning.
It has been a rough season for the Chicago Cubs, most particularly for Kyle Schwarber. The legend of Schwarber grew after his play in the World Series after missing all of 2016 with a knee injury. He only hit to the tune of a .412/.500/.471 slash line on baseballs’ biggest stage.
But this season has been nothing short of a disappointment. Schwarber’s average was a league low .170, even with 12 home runs. He also notched 77 strikeouts. So, Theo Epstein and the Cubs sent their left-fielder back to Triple-A Iowa. Epstein suggested that Schwarber is playing “more like a slugger than a hitter.”
He seems to have found his swing again. The ball had better watch out.
Kyle Schwarber kicks in the door with a moonshot to center field #MLB #Cubs pic.twitter.com/APK46au9qL
— FanSided (@FanSided) July 9, 2017
Next: 5 best spots for Chris Archer
After teammate Ian Happ took an offering from the Pittsburgh Pirates start Ivan Nova and placed it in the left field seat, Schwarber decided he could do one better. For a batter that only hits for a .173 average against right-handed pitching, he showed no issues versus Nova. Schwarber launched the 1-0 pitch deep into the center field seats. There was no doubt off the bat.
Pirates centerfielder Andrew McCutchen didn’t even more.
The Cubs demoted Schwarber on June 22, with hopes of him getting his swagger back. It seems to have worked. Since returning on July 7, Schwarber is 3-9, with a double and home run. He does have two strikeouts.
If the Cubs want to contend for the playoffs, they will need Schwarber to be at this best. If he keeps hitting, it will lead to more chances for Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo to do what they do best. It will also put pressure on opposing pitchers.
For now, just watch and enjoy.