The Cubs made a playoff roster move at the deadline.
The Cubs acquired outfielder Austin Jackson and a cash consideration from the
Seattle Mariners for a player to be named later and an international
signing bonus slot.
Jackson had been hitting .272 with eight homers, 18 doubles, 38 RBIs,
15 stolen bases, 46 runs scored and a .699 OPS in 107 games for
Seattle. He bats right-handed and plays center field. He is 28 and in
position to become a free agent after this season.
“I’ve seen him for a long time in the American League,” Joe Maddon said.
“When he starts swinging the bat well, he’s very productive. A fine
outfielder, good baserunner, kind of a complete player. So to be able to
pick him up right now, I think we’re very fortunate.”
To make room for Jackson on the 40-man roster, the Cubs designated
infielder Mike Olt for assignment.
Jackson is an upgrade on the bench. He gives Maddon a speed option and more platoon moves.
Maddon, with the roster expansion today, will start to yank pitchers quicker. (Last night he could have removed Kyle Hendricks in a jam, but left him in. It cost the Cubs runs.)
Maddon may start an odd play-off moves/exhibition game hybrid managing style. I assume he will make more early game moves on the fly like he did last night moving players into new or unfamiliar positions like Starlin Castro at second (3 errors last night) or Tommy LaStella playing third with Kris Bryant in right field.
It is better to keep Bryant at third and play Jackson in RF.
Maddon will have to rest some of his young players in the heat of the pennant chase this month. Kyle Schwarber looked rusty behind the plate after patrolling left field in August. But you also need to put your players in the best position to succeed so leaving players at their natural position is a key in September play off run.
