April 17--Kris Bryant had only three hours of sleep, but he handled his arrival Friday at Wrigley Field as if he were preparing for just another game.
"There's no pressure in this game," Bryant told a group of about 40 reporters and cameramen. "If you're feeling pressure, you're not having fun. I play this game because it's fun."
Nevertheless, the large number of reporters reflected the attention given to the arrival of the Cubs' top prospect, who will bat cleanup against San Diego All-Star ace James Shields.
"I'll bat wherever the coach tells me, but cleanup is very cool," Bryant smiled.
After receiving the news of his promotion Thursday night from Triple-A Iowa manager Marty Pevey, Bryant called his parents.
"My mom was shocked," said Bryant, adding that his father Mike was conducting hitting lessons but started to cry when he learned of his son's promotion. "It's something we've been working for my entire life -- 17 years. I'm just trying to enjoy the moment."
Bryant said any lingering disappointment over not making the opening day roster despite a dominating spring training has vanished.
"I don't think about the past at all," Bryant said. "I'm here now and ready to play some ball."
Bryant also appreciated the support from his veteran teammates, disappointing an eager reporter who wanted to know if they hazed him.
"They opened their arms and gave me great advice," Bryant said. "And they believe in me. They want me here. As a young guy trying to make his way through this game, that's all you can really want from your teammates. They've' been the greatest teammates you can have."
The only disappointment Bryant expressed was not getting to play in front of Cubs Hall of Famer Ernie Banks, who passed away last January. Bryant met him shortly after signing with the Cubs two years ago.
"It's a huge honor to wear this uniform knowing he wore it before me and plenty of guys before him," Bryant said. " I'm ready to put it on and make him proud.
