March 25--MESA, Ariz. -- It's back to outfield basics for Chicago Cubs top prospect Kris Bryant.
In an effort to increase his versatility and perhaps his chances of strengthening the lineup, the 6-foot-5 Bryant worked on taking proper routes and his footwork with coach Davey Martinez.
Bryant, who has played third base since high school, played some outfield at the University of San Diego. But Martinez instructed Bryant without the use of a glove.
"I just started catching the ball barehanded and just going over the basics," Bryant said before performing more outfield drills Wednesday. "That plays a part in getting to the ball quickly and having a good first step just like an infielder. I think it went very well.
Bryant wasn't positioned in a particular outfield spot during the drills, in which Martinez would toss a baseball for Bryant retrieve from about 20 feet.
"I think I'll have a couple more days of practice out there and shag some balls in batting practice, too," said Bryant, whose nine home runs in 27 at-bats this spring have fueled a massive debate over whether he should make the opening day roster and have the Cubs risk the chance of losing him to free agency after the 2021 season.
"I don't know if I'll be in left, center or right. But I think I'll be in the outfield sometime soon."
Meanwhile, center fielder Dexter Fowler confirmed the tip he was given by manager Joe Maddon to help his defense. Fowler said he was told by Maddon a few weeks ago to move before each pitch to help him track balls quicker.
Fowler, who grew up in an Atlanta suburb, said he watched former Braves great Andruw Jones use the same technique. Jones went on to earn 10 consecutive National League Gold Glove awards for his defense.
So far, Fowler said he's benefited from using the technique.
