As the Cubs release Munenori Kawasaki, we remember his greatest moments with the team
Tuesday morning, the Cubs released 35-year-old utility infielder Munenori Kawasaki. Kawasaki only played in 14 games for the Cubs in 2016, and with a young and formidable core of position players returning for 2017, it was hard to see Kawasaki emerging with an increased role with the team.
Nevertheless, this news is quite sad. At the time of his signing with the Cubs last offseason, he was poised to become a fan-favorite in Chicago. Now, let's look back on his journey with the Cubs.
Despite minimal Major League exposure, Kawasaki still won over hearts all across the North Side.
He made highlight-reel defensive plays:
Says 'must win' on the headband pic.twitter.com/hxw673JQTG
- Jesse Rogers (@ESPNChiCubs) March 4, 2016
His interview game, as always, was on point:
But, most importantly, he brought joy in the way only Kawasaki can:
We're not the only ones mourning the departure of Kawasaki; Cubs manager Joe Maddon is as well.
Maddon would love to have Kawasaki return to #Cubs. Wanted to give him chance to find spot with another ML team
- Carrie Muskat (@CarrieMuskat) March 28, 2017
#Cubs Maddon on Kawasaki: "The word 'release' is a very harsh word but I think it can be rectified. I hope he comes back to us"
- Carrie Muskat (@CarrieMuskat) March 28, 2017
All of baseball is hoping for a quick rectification.
