The Chicago Cubs are trying to get infielder Matt Shaw to become a super utility player, as he has no starting role, but have another viable option in Pedro Ramirez waiting in the wings.
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A former international free agent signing with the Cubs in 2021, Ramirez won a Gold Glove in the minor leagues last season, which is no easy feat.
“They told me that winning a Gold Glove in the Minor Leagues was difficult, so I wanted to take that challenge, and I wanted to show that I could play that position,” he said to Patrick Brown of MLB.com. “I put in the work, and I just wanted to challenge myself every single day.
“Then, I went out there to work and just showcase that.”
So far this spring, Ramirez has hit .364 with three steals (caught once) and driven in two RBI in eight games.
Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell wants Pedro Ramirez to expand his versatility
Ramirez is a primary infielder, playing second base, third base, and shortstop, but has also played four games in left field. The Cubs have a set infield, with Alex Bregman at third base, Dansby Swanson at shortstop, and Nico Hoerner at second base. Manager Craig Counsell would like Ramirez to “expand a little bit of his value defensively” if he’s to have a role on the Cubs.
“I think we’re trying to expand a little bit of his value defensively, because I think as you break into the big leagues, sometimes you’re not just going to be handed a position,” Counsell said to Brown. “You’re probably going to have to move around, and where the opportunity happens is where you get to play, but the fact that he’s got that attached to him means he should be able to handle new positions.”
Ramirez would be competing with infielder Matt Shaw, who will likely be Counsell’s utility man off the bench. Ramirez has done slightly better than Shaw at the plate, with Shaw hitting .308 with two stolen bases (has not been caught), and has one RBI in six games.
Pedro Ramirez will really need to open Craig Counsell’s eyes to make the Opening Day roster
It’s not out of the question that Ramirez could make the Cubs Opening Day roster, but it doesn’t seem likely barring an absolute standout performance this spring. Added to the 40-man roster this offseason to avoid him getting plucked in the Rule 5 Draft, the Cubs would have to use a minor league option on him if he doesn’t make the 26-man roster.
Shaw should get the chance to prove himself to start the season, with Ramirez likely to get a call-up at some point this season due to a potential injury or performance. Starting spring training strong at the plate and being solid defensively, Ramirez could force his way onto the Opening Day roster.
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