Chicago Cubs Spring Training Preview
Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
The Chicago Cubs broke the 108-year World Series drought last season after trailing 3-1 in the World Series against the Cleveland Indians. They are probably the favorites to win it all once again this season. Chicago is still a very young team. Their offense can score runs in bunches.
They won over 100 games last season and they could very well again this season. The starting rotation played well enough last season. The projected starting rotation will be: Jake Arrieta, Jon Lester, Kyle Hendricks, John Lackey, and Brett Anderson. Hector Rondon could be the closer, but he would probably be the setup man. Expect Wade Davis to be the closer.
The Cubs have two quality catchers in Willson Contreras and Miguel Montero. The infield is stacked once again with Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo, Addison Russell, Ben Zobrist, and Javier Baez. It is very possible Kris Bryant could win the NL-MVP once again this season.
Kyle Schwarber and Jason Heyward are clear cut starters in the outfield. They also have powerful bats. Albert Almora Jr. or Jon Jay will most likely be the other starting outfielder.
Projected opening day lineup: 1. (RF) Ben Zobrist 2. (LF) Kyle Schwarber 3. (3B) Kris Bryant, 4. (1B) Anthony Rizzo, 5.(C) Willson Contreras 6. (SS) Addison Russell 7. (CF) Jayson Heyward 8. (2B) Javier Baez 9. pitchers spot
The Chicago Cubs will start the season on the road April 2nd against the St. Louis Cardinals, but their home opener is August 10th against the Los Angeles Dodgers. That is when they will raise the championship banner.
