By Craig Lynch –
The Chicago Cubs won 95 games in 2018. However they were eliminated in the Wildcard round which left fans sad and nervous about the 2019 season. The talk at the Cubs Convention last week was cautiously optimistic at the Sheraton Grand Chicago.
“I think the Cubs have been one of the best teams for the last couple of years,” said Ian Happ, Cubs infielder/outfielder. “I think we will compete.”
Pitcher Pedro Strope said, “We didn’t win a World Series but we still had a good year. I don’t listen to what other people say, I can only be concerned what I can control.”
Cubs radio analyst Ron Coomer was pretty positive. “Ninety-five was the first number that I see,” Coomer said. “The season comes down to a few bounces and a few breaks.”
Coomer was asked about predictions that the St. Louis Cardinals and Milwaukee Brewers would pass the Cubs. “Nobody really knows what will happen during a season,” Coomer said. “All teams are just one or two injuries away from major problems.”
Jim Deshays, television analyst, is aware of the fans’ apprehension. “I understand the fans have high expectations. The team didn’t go far, but 95 wins is still pretty good,” Deshays said. He expects the National League Central to be interesting. “I know that some people like to come into the year thinking there team will roll, but I kind of enjoy the fact that the teams in the division will be beating each other up.”
Manager Joe Madden said, “It isn’t easy to win 95. We were all disappointed because everyone wants to be the team to win the last (game).” Madden takes the attitude that the Cubs are the team to beat.
Outfielder Albert Almora is confident. “I think we’ll be fine. I trust management will get us what we need.”
All in all, fans, players, and broadcasters will have nine more weeks until the start of the season to see if the Cubs can get back to championship form of 2016.