Four years ago I was standing on the field at Fitch Park, the Cubs’ minor league spring training facility, with a camera in my hand.  A young prospect walked up in catcher’s gear and introduced himself.  “Hi,” he said, “I’m Jake Fox.”  Ballplayers usually don’t talk to photographers, especially minor leaguers who are sensitive to the watchful eyes of their coaches.  But this kid seemed to have lots of poise and self confidence.  Standing next to me was Steve Green, the Cubs’ photographer, and I told Jake that he’s the guy he ought to get to know, because Steve would be shooting his pictures when he makes it to The Show.  Ever since then, I’ve sort of kept an eye on his progress through the minors.

    It took a while, but Jake Fox has forced his way to the major leagues and hits like he’s going to be around a while.  It wasn’t easy.  He lacked the fielding skills to be a catcher, so they converted him to first base, the outfield, and third base.  His reputation was good hit, no field, so he was looked upon as possible trade bait as a DH in the American League.  This season in spring training he hit everything they threw at him, but there was no room on a supposedly loaded Cubs roster, so he began the season in Iowa. 

    While he was tearing up the Pacific Coast League to the tune of a .400+ BA, with a ton of home runs and RBI’s, the Cubs’ vaunted offense fell into a swoon.  The hitters they were depending on were barely above the Mendoza Line.  They called him up, mostly sat him on the bench, and sent him back down.  He continued to hit in Iowa while the big guys continued to flail.  Finally they could ignore Jake no longer, and called him up again.

    He’s played mostly third base, and the iron glove tag doesn’t seem to fit.  He’s handled every ball hit at him so far.  And he’s raking major league pitching just like he did in the PCL.  Now, eventually pitchers will find some holes in his swing and he’ll have to adjust.  But he’s got a quick bat, lots of power, and doesn’t get cheated up there.  Whether it’s a high 90s fastball or a sweeping slider, he’s hit them all so far.  I think he’s for real. 

    For now, Jake seems to be a lock at third base.  When Aramis Ramirez comes off the DL, Lou will have to make a decision to bench somebody to get Fox‘ bat in the lineup every day.  (Bradley???)  He’s forced his way into The Show and doesn’t look like he’s going to leave for a few years.