MESA, Ariz. — As spring training progresses, Justin Dean and Scott Kingery are competing vigorously to secure important roles with the Chicago Cubs this season. Both players, coming from different career paths, see this as a critical opportunity to demonstrate their value and establish themselves within the team’s roster.
Dean, who recently won a World Series title with the Los Angeles Dodgers, is seeking to expand his contributions beyond his defensive prowess. Meanwhile, Kingery, a former top prospect with the Philadelphia Phillies, is looking to revive his major league career after bouncing between levels and teams in recent years. Their performances in training camp could shape their roles in this Cubs season.
Scott Kingery’s Journey From Phillies Prospect to Cubs Contender
Once hailed as a promising infielder with the Phillies, Scott Kingery is now working to regain his standing in the majors during the Cubs’ spring training in Mesa. After struggling to maintain consistent playing time in Philadelphia, he spent last season dividing time between Triple-A and the Los Angeles Angels organization, marking his first major league appearances in over three years.
As weird as it was for me to leave someplace that I’ve been for nine years, I think it helped me kind of get into a little bit of an uncomfortable spot where I had to just be like, all right, I’ve got something to prove to go out there and show these fresh eyes what I can do on a baseball field,
Kingery told the Tribune on Saturday.
Despite signing a lucrative six-year contract before playing a major league inning, Kingery’s tenure with the Phillies did not unfold as expected. After a tough rookie year, he rebounded in 2019 with a strong showing of 34 doubles, 19 home runs, and a 101 OPS+, which ended up being his career peak. Subsequent seasons saw his playing time and production decline significantly, with limited at-bats in the shortened 2020 season and minimal appearances over 2021 and 2022.
I feel like it was something different every year, to be honest,
Kingery reflected about his challenges.
I felt like there were some times where there was uncertainty for me, like, I wasn’t sure how the Phillies viewed me anymore or what their plan was for me. So in those moments, I feel like the only thing I could have done was put yourself in the best spot that you can to get called up. Maybe someone calls about a trade or something. Put yourself in a good situation.
Kingery understands the odds are against him cracking the Cubs’ major league roster immediately, barring injuries to starting infielders, but he remains determined to make the most of his opportunity.
It might not be right away, but if I can just go and put my best foot forward and play to my ability, I think I can put myself in a good spot,
Kingery said.
Craig Counsell, the Brewers’ manager who previously observed Kingery’s potential during his peak, commented on the infielder’s capabilities and the opportunities his versatility offers.
It’s a sign that it’s in there,
Counsell noted. “Offensively he’s struggled a little bit here, but because of (that standout season) and his defensive versatility and value — and it’s a spot we’re a little light at, frankly — there’s an opportunity there. Probably not out of camp, but things happen.
An important player from that perspective, so try to get him off to a good start offensively and see where we’re at.
Justin Dean’s Transition from Dodgers Champion to Potential Cubs Contributor
Justin Dean, 29, experienced the pinnacle of baseball success during the Dodgers’ championship run last season. Called up in August, Dean largely served as a defensive replacement, collecting only two at-bats in 18 regular-season games but showcasing elite speed and center field defense during the postseason. Notably, he was on the field at critical moments late in the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays.
To have it happen and to be there and get the outcome that we got, I’m super grateful and not satisfied, definitely one another, but I can say that I’ve seen the biggest stage, and I’m really happy about it,
Dean shared.
It was dope to be a part of it — it was a movie, honestly, that’s how I describe. It felt like being a part of a movie. But I’m just trying to trust my instincts and trust the game, the thousands, millions of reps that I’ve taken over the course of this game and trusting the work that I put in, and trusting that I was ready to be in those situations.
While his defensive skill set and speed are his greatest assets, Dean aims to prove during spring training that he can contribute more consistently with his bat. He is competing for a bench position on the Cubs but retains a minor-league option that might lead to starting the season in Triple-A, giving the Cubs extra depth in their outfield.
I know that the business is the business, things can change at the drop of a hat,
Dean said.
So just trying to navigate all that and still trying to get my work in, plan to be playing here. Baseball is baseball regardless of whatever shirt I’m wearing.
Injury Concerns Impacting Cubs’ Roster Prospects
The Cubs are also managing injury setbacks that could affect their spring training roster decisions. Jonathon Long has been sidelined due to a left elbow sprain sustained in late February during a collision at first base that occurred while attempting a catch. The team is monitoring his progress and plans to reassess by the weekend, but without notable improvement, further testing is expected. Long’s injury diminishes his chances of securing a spot on the major league roster, where he might have been considered for a bench role.
Additionally, left-handed pitcher Jordan Wicks continues to recover from forearm inflammation. Though he has started playing catch, Cubs manager Craig Counsell indicated there is no clear timetable for when Wicks might return to mound throwing, suggesting a prolonged recovery phase.
Spring Training Developments Signal Critical Roster Decisions Ahead
As spring training advances, players like Justin Dean and Scott Kingery are under pressure to demonstrate they belong in the Cubs’ lineup, either as regular contributors or as vital depth pieces. Their performances will be closely watched, especially amid injuries that could open unexpected opportunities. The Cubs’ management faces challenges balancing potential with health concerns, as the team prepares for the regular season.
For Dean, showcasing improved batting alongside his recognized defensive skills could solidify a role that adds value to the Cubs’ outfield depth. Kingery’s versatility and past successes remain attractive traits, but he must overcome recent career hurdles to earn consistent playing time. Meanwhile, injury recoveries for players like Long and Wicks will factor heavily into the team’s final roster composition.
The unfolding spring training thus represents a pivotal period for these players and the Cubs organization as they seek to build a competitive roster capable of navigating the demanding season ahead.
