Blake

DeWitt

They awarded signing bonuses of $1.575 million to Elbert, drafted 17th overall, and $1.2 million to DeWitt, drafted 28th.

We’re guessing that the promotion is a signal the Dodgers are giving up on DeWitt as a second baseman. Tony Abreu has owned that position at Jacksonville and is unlikely to move. DeWitt, a third baseman until this year, was back at his original position yesterday. His promotion came after he hit .268/.339/.442 in 425 at-bats for Single-A Vero Beach.

DeWitt, who made the switch from third base to second this year, is hitting .275/.336/.404 in 255 at-bats. Just 20 years old, he could develop into quite a prospect if he’s able to stay at second base.

DeWitt will be reevaluated on Friday. The Cubs don’t seem concerned that it’s anything more than a bruise.

Both were expected announcements. Mather has enjoyed a tremendous spring, batting .412 (21-for-51) with three homers and 13 RBI. He’ll add some versatility to the Cubs’ bench. DeWitt was outrighted off the 40-man roster in February, but has earned his way into the good graces of the new front office by hitting .289 (13-for-45) with one homer, five RBI and a 5/5 K/BB ratio during Cactus League play.

DeWitt tagged Bartolo Colon in the second inning. He also walked, scoring a pair of runs. Now 26, DeWitt is looking to earn a utility role. Capable of playing both the infield and outfield, DeWitt should be able to secure a roster spot after hitting .265/.305/.413 last season.

DeWitt was scratched from Sunday’s lineup after experiencing back spasms during batting practice, but he’s ready to contribute off the bench.

The Cubs announced earlier Thursday that DeWitt, who is now batting .313 this spring. had made the Opening Day roster even being designated for assignment last month. The 26-year-old played right field in this one and will be used all over the field this season in a utility role.

DeWitt had the option of electing free agency but will instead remain with the Cubs organization on a non-roster spring training invite. The 28-year-old infielder batted .265/.305/.413 last season for the Northsiders.

DeWitt returned with the Cubs on a non-roster spring training invite."He’s just a professional hitter,” Sveum said. “He’s a lifetime .260, .265 hitter that’s hit home runs and getting 200, 300, 350 at-bats a year. That’s like hitting .300 as an everyday player when you can put those numbers up playing once, twice a week pinch hitting. That’s a pretty valuable player and then you can throw him at four or five positions on the field.” DeWitt’s versatility will likely be key when roster decisions are finalized in April.