MESA, Ariz. _ The Cubs have reassigned most of the spring training fodder to the minor leagues, leaving Jason Heyward with more of a sampling of what he and his revamped batting stance can expect with the season approaching.
And in Heyward's mind, the timing couldn't be better to tune up for the season with starting pitchers working deeper into games.
"It's good to see a guy maybe three times in a game," Heyward said. "It's more normal. You're going to face a lefty but only after two at-bats."
The Cubs have downplayed Heyward's .125 batting average in 40 at-bats this spring because Heyward devoted the offseason to adjustments in his stance that included lowering his hands and holding his bat vertically.
A scout for an opposing team noted the work Heyward has put into his stance and swing and said he might get the results he's seeking by midseason.
But the final week of exhibition games could serve as a harbinger because of the better pitching quality and potential familiarity.
"I'm not worried about the swing anymore," Heyward said. "Timing is the thing now, and I want to perfect that and be consistently on time so the swing can work. The swing has been great."
Heyward has only three extra-base hits but is hitting with more authority than last season, when he hit into numerous feeble outs while batting .230 with seven home runs. A small sampling in spring training suggests he's more willing to hit to the opposite field.
"I've been able to do it comfortably and just react," Heyward said. "Timing is everything so you can do that _ hit the ball where it's pitched."
Manager Joe Maddon observed that Heyward hasn't chased many pitches out of the strike zone. Maddon has spoken to hitting coach John Mallee about ways Heyward can attack pitchers on certain counts or certain pitches.
Heyward senses the time is now to get dialed in.
"There's no more time to work on changing the swing or get the swing where it needs to be," Heyward said. "The swing is great. The work in batting practice and the other stuff to drive the ball out of the park or all over the field is great.
"But to do it at game speed now and find consistency with that, that's the norm. I'd say it's in a good place."
