CINCINNATI -- He’s not exactly your prototypical super-utility guy, but Chicago Cubs infielder/outfielder Kris Bryant might be an annual MVP candidate without a set position. The hands-down favorite for National League Rookie of the Year is known for big home runs -- he has 26 this year -- but after playing four positions in Monday’s game against the Kansas City Royals, his stature is growing even more.

“It comes down to the personal agenda of the player,” Cubs manager Joe Maddon said Tuesday before his team played the Cincinnati Reds. “Bryant is about winning, only. He’s a real selfless player.”

Bryant started Monday’s game at first base for the first time in his major league career, giving Anthony Rizzo a rare night off. It might not be the last time he plays there. Then he moved to center field, right field and finally third base. He played them all without issue, not because he’s not capable of manning third but because he’s willing and able.

Kris Bryant has played both corner infield positions and in the outfield, earning respect from his manager. "He's not worried about embarrassing himself," Joe Maddon said. AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast

“I wanted to see him at first base,” Maddon said. “That just adds to his resume. Would bet he could play shortstop.”

Bryant won’t play short or second, hasn’t caught since Little League -- he said he didn’t like it -- and don’t look for him to pitch. But next year he might be able to give Rizzo a day off more often while moving around the outfield and playing third. In fact, center field might be where he ends up the most as Dexter Fowler is a free agent. The Cubs don’t have a replacement ready at the moment.

“I think I can do it,” Bryant said. “Center field is the easier position for me. … I feel pretty comfortable moving all over. I like it that way, too, keeping me on my toes and ready each and every game.”

It gives Maddon more flexibility than most managers would have with a player of Bryant's physical stature. He still prefers playing third base as that’s the position he has worked at the most, but next spring there’s a good chance he’ll be all over the place again. Maddon couldn’t be more effusive in his praise of his rookie.

“He’s not worried about embarrassing himself,” the manager said. “He knows he’s prepared to play there. He’s out there playing baseball. He’s not worried about the kind of stuff that prevents people from doing those kinds of things. His ultimate goal is to win the game.

“Not everyone is like that.”

If Maddon is serious, then Bryant will have to buy a first baseman’s glove. On Monday, he was left scrambling as they couldn’t find Chris Coghlan's righty mitt. Instead, he grabbed a brand new one from Chris Denorfia.

“We were putting oil on it and putting it in the dryer,” Bryant said smiling. “I almost texted Rizzo and said he wasn’t getting his day off.”

In the end he didn’t have to use the new one as they found Coghlan’s after Bryant's crash course at first base with Cubs coach Gary Jones before the game. After handling himself ably there for a few innings he took off around the diamond.

“I was tired after that game,” Bryant said.

He might have to get used to it as Maddon isn’t shy about his players being able to play multiple positions -- as long as they are willing and able. Bryant is both.

“I feel comfortable with him anywhere,” Maddon said. “This guy is focused every day.”