VIDEO: Kris Bryant surprisingly makes debut in center field
Joe Maddon has officially removed Kris Bryant's training wheels.
Maddon shocked Chicago Cubs fans when he put the future of the franchise in center field late in Wednesday's clash with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Bryant, who's playing in only his sixth professional game, has played third base exclusively to begin his career, but also saw time in left field during spring training. The 23-year-old did play some center field in college, however.
(Courtesy: MLB.com)
Bryant was thrown into the spotlight due to an earlier groin injury to Dexter Fowler, who usually roams center for the Cubs. The rookie's 6-foot-5 frame isn't exactly ideal for the demanding position.
Kris Bryant now playing center field. The only taller players in history to man CF: Dave Winfield, Corey Hart, John Mayberry Jr., Dick Hall.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) April 23, 2015
Bryant said he enjoyed the experience after the game.
"It was cool out there. Center field is fun," Bryant told MLB.com's Carrie Muskat. "I actually like center better than the other two because I don't have to deal with the hooks."
Bryant is hitting an impressive .409 with six RBIs in six games since his promotion.