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Levine: Kris Bryant Debut A Success, Despite Some Failure

By Bruce Levine--

(CBS) -- Not too many prospects get a standing ovation and two press conferences in one day after going 0-for-4 with three strikeouts.

But in the world in which super-hyped  third baseman Kris Bryant lives, success can be found in positive thinking and total team play.

The 23-year-old Bryant made his major league debut Friday against one of the most savvy pitchers in the game. The results reflected the experience-against-novice factor. Padres ace James Shields struck Bryant out three times in San Diego's 5-4 win against Chicago at Wrigley Field. Bryant swung and missed at strike three changeups twice and an out-of-the-zone slider the third time.

In his fourth at-bat, Bryant hit a hard ground ball to third base that ended the inning. This was a result of the Padres walking Anthony Rizzo intentionally to face Bryant.

"Yeah, he is a good pitcher," Bryant said of Shields. "Of course, in your first game, you want to go out there and hit four home runs in one at-bat. I didn't really get any results today, but there is no reason to hang my head . I have had plenty debuts in my young career. Some have been good, some bad. That is the name of the game, really."

The positive vibe that emanates from this good young man is all real, all legit and fun to watch. Bryant took real solace in playing third base well, making the routine and difficult plays with a natural baseball sense.

Bryant's an easy young man to like, and you can't help but hope he's successful. He has been raised right by loving parents who put respecting others and working with other humans one and two in their play book.

Bryant won't face James Shields every day. When he does see Shields again, the changeup won't be that new to him. As a reporter, you report what you see and project from experience what you think you know. I think I know Bryant will be successful because of God-given ability and a wonderful sense of self for such a young man.

Perspective and self-assurance is the mark of most people who are successful at what they do. As an example, Bryant struck out five times in his professional debut for Boise in rookie ball in 2013. No excuses at that time, either, as he got two hits the next day. Within 18 games he was hitting .354 before being promoted to high-A in Daytona.

"I will come out here tomorrow ready to go," Bryant said with sincerity. "I will be hungry and ready to help the team win."

Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score and CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.

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