The AJC posted an article about how Francoeur isn't getting enough at bats in the WBC, gosh that sounds familiar. Remember that you heard it here first, last Saturday.
Bench Spots Update
Wilson Betemit is tearing up the Grapefruit League with an 11 game hitting streak (and shouldn't be sidelined for too long with a strained rib cage), and will be a shoe-in to make the roster (as perhaps the best backup infielder in baseball).
Pete Orr has only one hit in spring games and didn't fare much better during the WBC, but should still be considered a shoe-in for a bench spot, since he's the kind of player that Bobby loves.
The other 2 to 3 spots will be occupied by any of the following candidates:
Front runners:
Matt Diaz looks like he's ready to start the season tomorrow as he continues to tear up opposing pitching this spring. One beat writer already considers him a lock to make the team. Oh, and he has yet to strike out this spring.
James Jurries is only hitting a modest .500 this spring. If he even keeps up some of that, he's a lock for a roster spot.
Brian Jordan is making the most of what could be his last spring training. He is showing that he's fully recovered from all his bumps and bruises. I say he makes the team, he's too good of person not to (and he can still play).
On the bubble:
Kelly Johnson keeps getting into games and keeps getting hits. The question here is will the organization want him in a purely bench role in the majors, or playing every day in the minors.
Michael Ryan is one of those players with loads of talent that hasn't put it together yet. If he were in the lineup every day he might put up the same numbers that Langerhans would, but he may not get that chance as he is overshadowed by the home grown players already on the 40-man roster.
Fighting an uphill battle:
Scott Thorman is back from the WBC (where he got 1 at bat), but he's still not doing too much hitting.
Dave Kelton is getting at bats, but not getting hits. This once highly regarded Cubs prospect may have already peaked.