Joe Mather continues to impress as he hit a game winning solo homerun yesterday against the Texas Rangers. He is making a strong case to make the opening day roster with a rather impressive spring thus far. Not only has Mather had a nice spring with the bat, but his versatility should only improve his chances of making the team. He can play the corner outfield spots and can also play both corner spots in the infield. Mather, 29 hits from the right side of the plate, which if he makes the team he should get plenty of playing time against left-handed pitching as he could spell DeJesus, LaHair, and Sewart.
The Cubs signed Mather as a minor league free agent last December, who like Bryan LaHair has never really had a chance to get consistent playing time in the major leagues. A lot of Cub fans might remember his name from his stint with the Cardinals, but he has also spent time with the Atlanta Braves and Colorado Rockies organizations.
“I love the city of Chicago, and felt there was a decent opportunity here from talking to Theo (Epstein) and what some of the guys were saying,” Mather said. “Spring training is here. I live here, and it’s just a great organization. From what I’ve seen so far, everything is moving in the right direction toward winning, and it’s been real exciting.” The longer spring training has gone the better case Mather has made to make the team, and from his comments it seems he wants to be here as well.
Thanks for Reading,
Mark Sorrentino
Filed under: 2012 Spring Training
