The Cubs are calling up a heralded prospect for the second time in less than a week.
Addison Russell was the top shortstop prospect in Triple-A, but he will start at second base Tuesday against the Pirates.
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Confirmed: Russell joining team tomorrow. Expect him to play 2B vs. LHP Liriano.
— Gordon Wittenmyer (@GDubCub) April 21, 2015The Cubs already have Starlin Castro at shortstop, so Russell has been playing second base in the minors in preparation for the move. Second base has been a sore spot for the 7-5 Cubs. Arismendy Alcantara (.077) and Jonathan Herrera (.192) have underperformed at the plate.
Russell’s call-up from the club's affiliate in Iowa comes days after the team promoted top prospect Kris Bryant to play third base.
The 21-year-old will be one of the youngest players in the majors. He was acquired from the A's last summer in the deal that sent right-hander Jeff Samardzija to Oakland. He had a solid showing this spring, going 13 for 41 with a home run, six RBIs and two stolen bases.