DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL Central—Cubs' Lake dives right in

Chicago Cubs

Junior Lake (OF, CHC) is doing his best to take what was supposed to be a short-term call-up and make it a permanent one. Lake had at least one hit in each of his first five games, going 12-for-22 with 2 HR, 4 RBI and 1 SB.

Perhaps in a sign of things to come, Lake shifted over to LF with David DeJesus (OF, CHC) back in center on July 24. At a minimum, the RHB Lake could platoon in center with the LHB DeJesus, but if Alfonso Soriano (OF, CHC) was traded, it would open up a significant chunk of additional playing time. In addition, DeJesus could also be a trade candidate.

Lake has already demonstrated both the positive and negative qualities outline in his write-up in Daily Call-ups. The good: his power and speed; the bad: an...

Almost!

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