That being said, it is hard to really dig up excitement on a team that is coming off a few 90+ Loss seasons with minimal change to the roster. In reality, it is likely that this Cub team will win around 70-75 games. So what are the keys to being better than that? That is a great question. I would like to point out the following:
1.) Protection in the Lineup - It is fair to say that Anthony Rizzo did not have the flashiest season Batting average wise (nor did most the team). That being said, there are plenty of positives one can look too. The man had 63 extra base hits last year, which is near tops in the national league. Last year was his first full year in the Majors. It is natural to assume that fatigue set in and some adjustments needed to be made after he became the sole offensive threat in the Cubs lineup. Anthony needs protection in this lineup. I look to a few candidates to fill these spots. Junior Lake was a nice surprise last year. This year he needs to build on last years successes and help this Cubs offense that is starved for production. As I have tweeted quite regularly, I look to Mike Olt to be a steal at 3B. This guy was UNTOUCHABLE when we traded Garza. My hope is the vision problems and injuries are behind him and he can really get back to form.
2.) Bullpen - Twenty-six. TWENTY-SIX!!! Per ESPN.com, the Cubs had 26 blown saves last year, 4th worst in baseball. If this offseason hasn't been enough proof, Theo and Co. have addressed this issue. The Cub are loading up on arms; the key piece being Jose Veras at closer. On paper, this bullpen is already night and day better than last year's bullpen. There are even arms in the minors to help if there is an injury. If the Cubs convert just 7 more saves next year, this is a different team.
3.) Starting Pitching - I cannot say enough good things about Travis Wood last year. Travis had a career year on which he was rewarded (rightfully so) with a trip to the All-Star game. I wish I could say great things about the rest of the staff. This is a very intriguing group. Jake Arrietta had electric stuff, but has yet to put it all together. Chris Bosio has worked wonders with some, so I look to Arrieta taking the next step now that he has left the atmosphere of Baltimore. Edwin Jackson became the face for angry Cub fans to point blame on Theo. I do agree it was a bit odd to be aggressive in a pitcher like Edwin, but I also do not believe he is as bad as he was last year.
This list could go on for the questions for this years team. The answers are only a short few weeks away. My question for you is: What are your answers?
Until next time.
CC
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