Chicago Cubs: 2018 Home Run Derby could see madness ensue
By Patrick Voss
The Chicago Cubs have stars Javier Baez & Kyle Schwarber entering the 2018 Home Run Derby. The madness can ensue from these selections is simply amazing.
The Chicago Cubs are going into the 2018 MLB All-Star weekend with three All Stars in the big game this summer, including Javier Baez and Kyle Schwarber. Jon Lester was supposed to accompany his two Cubs teammates, but due to a pitching appearance on Sunday, July 15th Lester will be replaced during All-Star weekend by Arizona Diamondbacks ace Zach Greinke. Baez and Schwarber are also participating in the 2018 Home Run Derby, alongside other great hitters such as: Bryce Harper, Freddie Freeman, Max Muncy, Jesus Aguilar, Rhys Hoskins, and Alex Bregman.
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So far this season, Cubs second baseman Baez has amassed a .289 batting average, accompanied by 18 home runs and 66 runs batted in. If anything, the way that the current bracket is set up, Baez has a real chance to break into the Derby finale. The only adversity Baez may face would be — in my mind — a meeting with Washington Nationals outfielder Bryce Harper. But, if by some miracle, Baez overcomes that kind of struggle this summer, I’ll have to tip my hat to the first time All-Star, World Series Champion and 2016 National League Championship co-MVP.
https://twitter.com/javy23baez/status/1016150837540708352
Schwarber could make a push to be king as well
The Cubs’ second entrant in the 2018 Home Run Derby is huge-hitting outfielder Schwarber. Schwarber has put up an impressive first half of the season with 17 home runs, 39 runs batted in as well as 3 stolen bases. Although Schwarber only posted a .247 batting average, the overall competitiveness that he brings to the Cubs roster is almost unmatched by any other player. But, that also has to do with the All-Star-caliber culture being instilled within the Cubs organization.
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In the end, the only bump in the road I see for Schwarber and Baez reaching the 2018 Home Run Derby Finale would be a weak round from either competitor. This is the year for Cubs surprises, and what better way to accomplish that then to give all of the fans out there an all-Cubs Derby finale.
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