The Cubs roster hasn't changed much since last season. The biggest addition to the roster has been Milton Bradley. Outfielder Kosuke Fukudome struggled in the second half 2008, so the Cubs added the switch-hitting Bradley to add some more pop to the lineup, especially after the bats went silent during a series sweep of the National League Division Series by the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Cubs may also move leadoff hitter Alfonso Soriano down in the lineup, where his power may be put to better use.
Strong Rotation
The Cubs' biggest strength is their pitching rotation. Led by ace Carlos Zambrano, and rounded out by Ted Lilly, Rich Harden, and Ryan Dempster, the rotation is expected to carry the team yet again. The fifth starters spot will go to either Sean Marshall, Jeff Samardzija, or Aaron Heilman.
Other Additions
The Cubs have made a few other roster moves, including adding speedy outfielder Joey Gathright and backup infielder Corey Koskie. They also brought back backup catcher Paul Bako for his second tour of duty with the Cubs.
The Cubs may not have much competition in the NL Central. The Houston Astros and St. Louis Cardinals have taken steps to improve, and the Milwaukee Brewers were a playoff team last year, but the Cubs are the odds-on favorites right now. The biggest key for the Cubs will be avoiding failure in the playoffs, should they make it back. Perhaps part of the reason for past failures has been the weight or 100 years of expectations, not to mention a sizeable fan base that is watching from across the nation. Now that the Cubs have experienced this two years in a row, they may be better prepared.
The Soriano Switch
Moving Soriano from the lead-off spot to a slot lower in the order has been a controversy almost since his first day on the North Side. Critics complain that Soriano strikes out too much and is too selfish of a hitter to be a leadoff man. Others suggest that his power would be helpful in the middle of the lineup, especially at the bandbox that is Wrigley Field. While manager Lou Pinella says Soriano is the leadoff man for now, this situation bears watching.
The Pinella Factor
Pinella isn't known for being calm...some of his tirades on and off the field are legendary. Wrigleyville is anxious to see what will happen the first time the Cubs suffer a losing streak, or the first time a player doesn't hustle. Will Pinella's combustibility drive the Cubs to new heights? Or will it not be enough for the Cubs to overcome their history?
Fans will see come October.
Tim Healey - I am a freelance writer specializing in sports and automotive interests. In my spare time, I run, listen to good music, explore my city. ...
