Sure, a few starting pitchers have wondered why Joe Maddon hasn't left them in games longer and Miguel Montero questioned his lack of playing time during the postseason on the day the Chicago Cubs celebrated their World Series win, but other than that the egos have been put aside on the North Side. Albert Almora Jr. is just another one of those examples.
With Dexter Fowler and Jorge Soler no longer with the Cubs in 2017, a spot was open in the outfield for Almora to secure. It hasn't quite gone to script for the 23-year-old, as he's been in and out of the lineup, mainly starting against left-handed pitchers. The playing time became more scarce once Ian Happ was called up and immediately added a boost offensively. Since Happ made his debut on May 13, Almora has only started 7-of-21 games.
On Monday, Almora made his first start in a week and was 2-for-3, against the Miami Marlins, including his third home run of the season.
Following the Cubs win Almora discussed the playing time and how of course he'd love to start more. Yet, once again, he knows it's not about him.
Almora has played in 45 games this season, putting up a slash line of .276/.327/.410. He's made 24 starts overall out of 56 games, but outside of the stats the attitude is what stands out. And really it speaks to the greater message that is instituted from the very bottom to the very top of the organization. That began in 2011, when Theo Epstein took over. Who was his first draft pick after taking over the Cubs? Albert Almora Jr. Nothing about the Cubs success has been based on one player. Since the start it has always been about the team. Almora is prime example of that.
The message was delivered and everyone has bought in. So far, it's worked out to perfection.
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