Chicago Cubs: Did Kyle Schwarber get recalled too soon?

After playing just 11 games for Triple-A Iowa, the Chicago Cubs recalled Kyle Schwarber up to the big leagues on Thursday, just before their blow-out loss to the Milwaukee Brewers. Was this move by the front office one they’ll end up regretting?

While no one expected the Chicago Cubs to keep Kyle Schwarber in the minors for long, his sudden call-up by the front office on Thursday was striking. Schwarber hit an impressive .343, with four home runs, along with eight walks drawn in 11 games played at Triple-A. Still, the organization may have pushed for his return to the Chicago Cubs’ lineup too soon.

In his first game back with the big-league club on Thursday, Schwarber looked more like the “old” Schwarber, rather than the rejuvenated one at Triple-A. He struck out twice, to go along with two groundouts.

Strikeouts, unfortunately, have been Schwarber’s Achilles’ heel this season. They are what has haunted the young slugger since Day 1.

While the intent from the front office was to let Schwarber regain some lost confidence, down at Triple-A Iowa, would leaving him there until sometime after the all-star break been the wiser decision?

Small sample size

After all, 11 games played is a very small sample size to take into account. And that is for any playing level, including the majors. Players go on brief hot streaks all the time, only to come back crashing down to earth shortly after.

Will the pressure get to him?

The game of baseball moves a lot faster than in the minors. As a result, players don’t have nearly as much time to think and react accordingly.

This, of course, doesn’t bode well for Schwarber. Down at Triple-A, he could work on correcting bad habits evident throughout his at-bats. Without feeling the weight of a now, seemingly frustrated fan-base, crashing down upon him, following any slip-ups.

Unfortunately, that luxury hardly exists in the majors. Unless you’re a rookie, and are thus, new to “The Show”.

Having said that, great hitters typically find ways to move past their struggles. Anthony Rizzo is a prime example of that. He’s always been a slow starter. Only to catch fire hitting the ball for a high average, once June rolls around.

Schwarber, as such, can take notes on Rizzo’s turnaround this season. Through taking one at-bat at a time. While not trying to do too much at the plate, with one mighty swing.

Sure, it’s easier said, than done. But Schwarber is not just anyone. Don’t forget that this is the guy who missed all but three regular season games last season, and still came back just in time for the World Series to hit .412. on the biggest stage!

Well, who wouldn’t bet against that same player coming back stronger than ever, following a brief stint in the minors?

Only time will tell.

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