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Levine: Kris Bryant Ready To Advance His Career

By Bruce Levine-

(CBS) Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant will start the season in the minor leagues, but after dominating pitching at two Class A levels in 2013, his ascension to the majors could come as early as mid-summer.

"My job is to play well at whatever place they send me,"" Bryant told 670 The Score's David Schuster on Friday. "Yes, it would be great to go to the big leagues. I just need to concentrate on my game regardless where it is at."

Bryant, the No. 2 pick in the first-year player draft last June, is a likable young man who has a quick wit and sense of humor. He was the MVP of the Arizona Fall league last November.

Some scouting friends of mine believe he will be ready to play in the major leagues with a little defensive improvement.

"This young man has tremendous natural power," an AL scout said. "The ball jumps off of his bat, he will hit and hit for power. His defense will improve with better footwork. They should work with him in getting up on his toes and moving side to side before the ball is thrown. The slow roller is a challenge for him."

Bryant believes pitchers Corey Black, Pierce Johnson and C.J. Edwards will all be moving quickly through the Cubs' system.

"Those guys were an awesome staff at Daytona last season," Bryant said. "We won because of our pitching. They are a talented group."

Bryant will be a guest of Mike Esposito and myself on 670 The Score's baseball show Saturday at 8:45 a.m. CT on Saturday. You can listen on WSCR 670 AM or 670thescore.com. Other guests include Indians manager Terry Francona and White Sox manager Robin Ventura.

Bruce Levine is a baseball reporter/analyst for 670 The Score and CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.

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