Your 2011 Chicago Cubs

[fugazi]

wow....

welcome back, 2010 Cubs.

[yougo1000]

Quote: Originally Posted by fugazi

Seriously, yougo? While I wish it were true, how can you believe that? I would like to hear why you think a 20 yr old SS (who is admittedly a doubles machine, and potentially a gold-glove fielder) is going to somehow make up for the lack of power, consistent hitting, and top-shelf pitching? I want the Cubs to win, don't get me wrong...and there is an outside shot that they could "contend"...but, that just sounds silly. The Cards have had set-backs, but still have strong chance in the division, and a much better lineup. The Brewers seem very serious about running at the division, and Cincy sure looked good last year. And that is just in the NLC.

A lot of people like to hit groundballs into the gaps and if Castro can stop those basehits and he can deliver in the clutch offense and defense situations the Cubs could seriously finish above .500

[fugazi]

So we've gone from "contend" to "finish above .500".

I agree; that is more likely.

But you might want to add that they will need Pena, Soriano, Ramirez, and Soto to produce consistently. Over-achievement from the rotation will also be required, as will a rather nice helping of luck.

This isn't run-of-the-mill Cubs pessimism...this is just a realistic assesment. Castro is just the SS. See ARod with the Rangers...

[Mo]

Jeff Samardzija would probably do better on the Bears than in the bullpen...though it was Starlin Castro bobble head day...Got 2

[Mo]

Cant catch a break,

Quote:

A rotator cuff strain for Cashner and a forearm strain for Wells. Both will go on the DL and miss 2 weeks.

[BleacherBum2310]

Just saw that, that's terrible..

Especially since the two had great outings to start the year.

[NDAlum]

Quote: Originally Posted by Mo

Jeff Samardzija would probably do better on the Bears than in the bullpen...though it was Starlin Castro bobble head day...Got 2

http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/2...eff-samardzija

He needs to shave.

I'll say that when he throws low 90s he'll be a better pitcher. He has no second pitch either. I mean seriously, he's a thrower.

I can't believe he gets so much money.

[yougo1000]

Soto and Baker were huge last night driving in important runs.