The Chicago Cubs are gearing up for an exciting season ahead, with key dates, position battles, and burning questions on the minds of fans and players alike. As spring training kicks off on Super Bowl Sunday, Cubs president Jed Hoyer is navigating a landscape of possibilities, including potential deals with top players like Alex Bregman and Dylan Cease. With financial flexibility and a talented roster, the Cubs are poised to make waves in the upcoming season.
Position Battles
One of the most hotly contested positions for the Cubs is at third base, where young talent Matt Shaw is looking to secure a starting role. However, the possibility of signing Alex Bregman looms large, adding an element of uncertainty to the mix. With a range of options available, including Jon Berti, Vidal Bruján, and Nicky Lopez, the Cubs are considering all avenues to strengthen their lineup.
In the pitching department, the battle for the fifth starter spot is heating up, with pitchers like Shota Imanaga, Justin Steele, Jameson Taillon, and Matthew Boyd vying for a place in the rotation. Manager Craig Counsell’s preference for a six-man rotation adds an interesting twist to the competition, as the Cubs aim to build a solid pitching staff for the season ahead.
Bullpen
In the bullpen, the Cubs are counting on players like Ryan Pressly to deliver strong performances, with a mix of experienced and up-and-coming pitchers rounding out the roster. The bullpen is always a volatile area, with players like Ryan Brasier, Tyson Miller, and Nate Pearson ready to step up when needed. The Cubs’ focus on depth and versatility will be crucial as they navigate the challenges of a long season.
Three Burning Questions
As the Cubs head into spring training, there are three key questions that need answers. First, the status of Gold Glove second baseman Nico Hoerner’s recovery from surgery will be closely monitored, as his presence is vital to the team’s success. Second, the role of pitcher Ben Brown, who has shown promise both as a starter and a reliever, remains up in the air. Finally, the Cubs are looking to their young players like Pete Crow-Armstrong, Michael Busch, and Miguel Amaya to step up and contribute to the team’s offensive power.
With important dates like the first spring game on February 20 and the season opener in Tokyo on March 18, the Cubs are gearing up for an action-packed season ahead. As they face tough competition and challenging decisions, the team is ready to showcase their talent and determination on the field. Stay tuned for more updates as the Cubs embark on their journey to success in the upcoming season.
