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Kris Bryant is looking to keep the Chicago Cubs rolling this season after being called up on April 17.
Today I got to tell my family that my dream is coming true. Can’t really put into words what that feels like. So excited for this journey!
The third baseman quickly worked his way through the farm system after being drafted out of San Diego, and is now joining a first-place Cubs team.
Here’s what you need to know about him:
1. Bryant Was the 2nd Overall Pick in the 2013 Draft
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Bryant was taken second overall by the Cubs in the 2013 draft out of San Diego.
One of the best college prospects out there, it was no surprise for him to go so early — especially to a Cubs team that needs a power hitter. According to MLB.com, Bryant wasn’t surprised either.
I obviously think I could play in the big leagues now. I have that type of confidence in myself, but, like I said, that’s not my decision. I’ll leave that up to the guys in charge.
2. He Started 2014 in Double-A
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Bryant started last season with the Cubs Double-A team in Tennessee. There, he had 22 home runs, 58 RBI and a .355 batting average in 68 games, according to another MLB.com article.
He was a participant in the Southern League All-Star game and won the Home Run Derby with a total of 16 homers during the competition. Two days later, he was promoted to Triple-A.
At the end of the season, he was named the USA Today Minor League Player of the Year and Baseball America Minor League Player of the Year.
3. Bryant Hit More Home Runs Than Anyone in Spring Training
Bryant belted a total of nine home runs during spring training — more than anyone else.
He also had a .425 batting average, .477 on-base percentage and 1.175 slugging percentage. He had 17 hits and four walks in 40 at bats.
Watch the video above to hear the Baseball Tonight panel discus the impact he can have on the Cubs.
4. Bryant’s Demotion Is Speculated to be For Monetary Reasons Only
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When Bryant was sent to the minors after spring training, many speculated it was so the club would have an extra year of control over his contract.
This controversial clause of the Collective Bargaining Agreement states that a player must be on a 40-man roster for 172 of 183 days for it to count as a year of service. By missing the first 11 days of the season, the year does not count against his contract. April 17 is the 12th day of the 2015 MLB season.
Now, the Cubs have control of him until 2021, instead of 2020.
According to ESPN.com, the praise Bryant received for spring training, followed by being sent back down, just drove him more.
I was told it was a top-two spring training performance, which was cool to hear. The dream is on hold for a little bit, but I’m hungrier than ever.
5. Bryant Has Chicago Ties
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According to the first MLB.com article, Bryant’s mom is from Chicago.
However, the superstar doesn’t know much about the team.
I know they haven’t won a World Series in a while. Hopefully, I can do all I can to help the Cubs win one. That’s about the extent of what I know. I know it’s a great baseball city, I know it’s a great team — a lot of history to it. I’m excited and just happy I’m going to be given the opportunity to continue playing this game.
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Kris Bryant: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know