Chicago Cubs Express Concern Over Third Baseman's Defensive Abilities

Chicago Cubs third baseman Patrick Wisdom received some tough feedback in his end-of-season meeting with the team.

While he is capable of carrying the offense with his streaky hitting, the Cubs stressed the need for consistent defense regardless of his batting performance. Wisdom took this criticism to heart and spent the offseason reflecting on how his offensive struggles affected his defense.

Patrick Wisdom’s end-of-year meeting with Cubs involved some hard truths about his defense.

How that chat, & no longer being bothered by his back, served as recalibration. “It’s definitely something I needed to hear, not necessarily what I wanted to hear.”https://t.co/QgYNbdG9er

— Meghan Montemurro (@M_Montemurro) March 8, 2023

He adjusted his mindset and changed how he tracks a pitch, which has led to improved ball-tracking and quicker reactions in the field.

The Cubs still view Wisdom as an asset at third base, despite his defensive inconsistencies last season. He also provides versatility in the outfield, but may face competition for playing time at third base from Nick Madrigal and Edwin Ríos.

A walk and a single for Patrick Wisdom. Coming back from groin soreness this past week. pic.twitter.com/sKuQIx1NnZ

— Aldo Soto (@AldoSoto21) March 4, 2023

Over the past two seasons, the 31-year-old has posted a .217/.301/.465 triple-slash line, 53 home runs, 127 RBIs, 12 stolen bases and 121 runs scored across 240 games played.

Wisdom is a former first-round pick by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 2012 MLB Draft. Photo Credit:  Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports