Why Cubs’ Matt Szczur is going to have to steal a starting spot

Matt Szczur feels like he belongs with the Cubs’ young core. But less certain is where and when he might be able to crack the starting lineup.

“With guys like Matty, it’s just about opportunity,” said manager Joe Maddon, who has leaned more on the versatile outfielder in recent weeks because of injuries to starters. “He’s not going to be ordained that guy more than likely.”

“He needs an opportunity, probably during the season, and all of a suden he just might run with it, and then he becomes a regular player.”

Szczur, a fifth-round draft pick in 2010, was part of the Cubs’ touted rookie class last year, but the one perhaps most often overlooked.

That hasn’t been the case, at least among teammates and staff, this year, where he has played a significant role off the bench.

He helped win two games against the Rangers over the weekend with key pinch hits, and when he started Monday, his career-first three-hit game helped the Cubs beat the Mets for the first time in more than a year. Szczur however also struck out during the ninth inning with the bases loaded on Tuesday against the Mets.

“I think I fit pretty well with the group,” Szczur said. “Whatever Joe ask me to do, I’m going to do. Whether it’s coming off the bench, pinch hit, play the field or run the bases or get the occasional start – I’m going to go out there and give it my best.”

His 10 pinch hits this season are just one off the major-league lead.

But what about a long-term starting job on a team with a young core that includes outfielders Albert Almora Jr., Jorge Soler and Kyle Schwarber (expected back from a season-ending knee injury in the spring)?

“All I can do is give it my all. I’ve got to control what I can control and the one thing I can control is how I perform and how much effort I give,” Szczur said. “I’m going to go out there and help the team win everyday.”

He’s making the most of his 15 chances to start so far, helping the Cubs win 10 of those games. He’s 30-for-102 this season (.294) with nine extra-base hits and six walks.

“This guy shows up every day,” Maddon said. “He’s not going to complain if you don’t play him. He just stays ready and that’s the beauty for a guy like him.”

“You don’t augur a spot out for him, but all of a sudden, he might just take it.”