Cubs first base prospect Daniel Vogelbach showed up to spring training 30 pounds lighter in an attempt to prove to his critics he can be athletic enough to play in the field, per MLB.com.
"In the offseason, I really took it seriously to get myself in shape so there was no question about whether I could play first base or am I only going to be a DH?" said Vogelbach, who is considered the Cubs' 10th-best prospect by MLB.com. "I want to play first base, I want to be on the field. That's the type of player I am, I want to be on the field at all times."
The biggest concern for Vogelbach was would the weight loss lead to him losing some power. Vogelbach, who has a career .515 slugging percentage in the minors, doesn't feel that has happened.
"I think I gained power," Vogelbach said. "I got a lot stronger with Doug [Jarrow, Cubs strength coach] and being home lifting a lot. I'm a lot looser with losing the weight. I can move better, not only in the field but swinging. I actually feel better at the plate than I usually do."