MESA, Ariz. – Prior to the Cubs' 7-5 loss to the Los Angeles Angels on Tuesday, manager Joe Maddon talked about 23-year-old shortstop Addison Russell showing off his power more consistently this season. Russell hit 21 last summer and got his first Cactus League homer of the season Monday.
“I think the power is going to keep getting more consistent, because he just understands better,” Maddon said. “The ball comes off the bat hot. He’s got these large hands and he’s very strong. When a young guy like that starts really understanding what he’s really doing up there.