Scott Barnes Must Prove Himself For Chicago Cubs In 2016 Spring Training

The Chicago Cubs are one of the favorites to win the World Series in 2016. That hasn’t been the case for almost 30 seasons. After having many of their young position players mature to major league talent last season, the Cubs are ready to make another playoff run in 2016.

Looking at the roster for the Cubs, they have the requisite power, defense and starting pitching to make a run in the playoffs. Their bullpen has some questions. Their closer and middle relievers appear set. The setup pitchers, in particular the lefty specialist, appear to have some holes. There is no lefty specialist projected to make the opening day roster for the Cubs.

Scott Barnes is one of three relievers who was brought in on a minor league deal to compete for the role. None of the three have had many appearances to date in spring training. If the decision is based purely on previous experience, Manny Parra will win the role.

Barnes needs to work hard to get more opportunities in a game. He had cups of coffee with the Cleveland Indians in 2012 and 2013, but hasn’t made it back to the majors the past two seasons. During that time he has pitched in the minors for the Indians and the Toronto Blue Jays. Barnes has never been presented with a better opportunity to stick with an MLB club.

Last season was tough for Barnes. His WHIP rose to 1.41, his second highest as a professional. He has flitted back and forth between starting and relieving. Like so many left-handed pitchers before him, Barnes needs to dedicate his time to getting lefties out full-time.

The Cubs desperately need a lefty specialist. This may be Barnes’ last chance to stick in the bigs. He needs to do whatever is necessary to prove himself to the Cubs this spring.