Cubs newly acquired Joc Pederson looking like a new player this Spring
On January 29th, when the Cubs signed former dodger outfielder to a one-year, $7 million deal, the Cubs weren't expecting Joc to be on such a hot start.
Pederson, who makes his money by hitting home runs, now also complements the power with a high average. Even though we are still in spring training and the regular season doesn’t start for another couple of weeks, this spring is by far the best spring of his career.
So far through the spring, Pederson has been an absolute unit at the plate. Hitting .500, with five home runs, with 10 RBI’s. Joc has been one of the more productive Cubs this Spring Training.
With the added protection, he adds to the lineup around slugger Anthony Rizzo and Kris Bryant. The middle of the Cubs order is going to be a big threat for the Cubs.
Pederson has already shown that he could play a pivotal role in the Cubs success during Spring Training with his performance at the plate. With scouts within the Cubs organization saying Joc Pederson “is playing on another freaking planet.”
Not only is Joc a huge offensive presence for the Cubs he can also help them defensively.
Pederson has always been an above-average defender in the outfield. With his fielding percentage never falling below .990 during a season. He’s proven that he’s a threat on both sides of the ball; however, for his career, his batting average is a measly .230. However, with the change of scenery and Joc’s hot start, I think Joc could easily finish this upcoming season with a batting average above .260 and help the Cubs make their way into the playoffs.
Overall, I think this was an excellent signing for the Cubs and Pederson. The Cubs acquire an all-star slugging outfielder, and Pederson acquires a new team and a new opportunity to blossom into a gold-glover and sliver slugger that he can be.
