Cubs dump Barrett, yet get quality in return
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by user Redsoxfaithful38
The Chicago Cubs dumped Michael Barrett on the Padres. This looked like a move with the future in mind, especially after Barrett was involved in two incidents involving two pitchers this season. The first was the most notable in which Barrett and Carlos Zambrano got involved in a brawl. Later he and Rich Hill got involved in a heated debate. Piniella told reporters earlier this week that Barrett would see reduced playing time, but citing it had nothing to do with his involvement with Zambano or Hill. In return for Barrett the Cubs got backup catcher rob Bowen, young outfielder named Kyler Burke, and cash considerations. Burke is a 19 year pitcher converted right fielder. Burke has good potential and has a keen batting eye. He has a good, clean swing, but he tends to drift his body into pitches and gets out on his front foot. He struggled making contact in the Arizona League when pitchers began giving him a steady diet of breaking pitches and off-speed pitches. He lost some confidence and assertiveness, being his first failure. He has potential to be a high average guy to compliment his power. He just needs to find his rythem at the plate to fix his timing. He has average speed at best and does not have great range in the outfield. He does possess a strong arm which has allowed him to man right field.
