Chicago Cubs: Three unthinkable moves that must be made

Move Number Two: Make David Bote an Everyday Starter

If this was a headline back in April, most Cubs fans would say “who?”

David Bote has burst onto the scene in his rookie campaign as a key contributor in the Cubs lineup.

Bote has hit .344 in 30 games with the Cubs this season, driving in 14 runs and hitting two home runs.

However, the only reason why Bote has gotten an opportunity in the first place in because of injuries. Specifically, Kris Bryant.

When Bryant returns, as he is expected to, he’ll re-assume the role of the Cubs starting third baseman. Understandable, given Bryant’s superstar status.

But .344 is just too high to keep out of any lineup. The Cubs have to find a way to keep Bote in the starting lineup, even if it means playing him elsewhere.

Bote can play second base, shortstop, and the outfield. Let’s assume second base is off-limits.

Shortstop? Not so much. Addison Russell has struggled at times in 2018, hitting .264 with just five home runs. The Cubs probably wouldn’t move Russell to a permanent bench role, but maybe they’d consider platooning him and Bote.

If the Cubs want to keep Russell in the permanent lineup, then they can resort to moving Bote to left field, where he’d start against lefties over Kyle Schwarber.

Whether it be third base, shortstop or left field, the Cubs need to keep Bote’s big bat in the lineup.