Spring cuts are upon us, but there’s actually little news here – none of the nine guys who comprise the first set of cuts were expected to actually make the Cubs. It is no reflection of how the Cubs think about these guys’ future – in fact, two of the guys cut were former number one picks Josh Vitters and Brett Jackson.
Mitch Atkins was optioned to Triple-A Iowa and David Patton, whom the Cubs acquired in December 2008 in the Rule 5 Draft, was optioned to Double-A Tennessee. Both are right-handed pitchers.
Jackson, Vitters, catchers Steve Clevenger and Blake Lalli, infielder Matt Camp, and pitchers Jeff Kennard and Vince Perkins all were assigned to the Minor League camp.
Jackson, an outfielder, was the Cubs’ No. 1 Draft pick last June, while Vitters was the top pick in 2007. Vitters, who was bothered last season by a wrist injury, hit .316 at Class A Peoria and .238 at Class A Daytona. cubs.com.
Vitters is likely to start out at Daytona again this year, but could move quickly. Jackson, having only played a half season of professional ball, will probably start out in regular A ball.