Why Pederson ‘picking on the manager' is good sign for Cubs

Share

Joc Pederson may be one of the newest faces in the Cubs’ clubhouse this spring, but the left fielder is standing out for his presence both on and off the field.

“He’s having a great spring,” Cubs manager David Ross said Wednesday.

Pederson signed a one-year deal with the Cubs this winter, in part because they offered him the chance to start every day. In a media session last month, the 28-year-old discussed not feeling respected as an everyday player and how he wanted that opportunity.

That confidence in himself has been on display the first few weeks into spring training. Pederson has raked early on, hitting .429 (6-for-14) with three home runs in six games.

“There’s a real confidence about him when he walks around,” Ross said. “He’s just himself, he knows who he is and he’s comfortable in his own skin — and a fun guy.”

The Cubs manager recently got to experience that side of Pederson’s personality firsthand. As Ross was walking to pick up carryout food, Pederson pulled up in his car and honked his horn.

Ross said it “scared the crap out of me” and “had me jump about 4,000 feet” in the air.

“He’s even picking on the manager a little bit in that way,” Ross said with a laugh. “He’s a fun guy, he keeps things loose, but he talks baseball all the time and he’s working to be better, just like the rest of our group.”

It may only be early March, but Pederson is making a strong impression ahead of his first season with the Cubs. 

“He’s fit in real easily, and he’s a pleasure to have around,” Ross said. “When he’s playing like that, you can just tell how comfortable he is.”

Click here to subscribe to the Cubs Talk Podcast for free.

Contact Us