OK, here I go. My optimistic turn. Every other writer has done it, and here I go. The Cubs may just be very good this year. Playoff berth? Possible. Division? Possible. Further? Doubtful. The core of this Cubs team is decent, and has the possibility of being very good, if only there were more arms.....but that is another story. So here I go, my predictions....
Potential MVP candidate- Aramis Ramirez....
This guy has the potential to be lights out this year. He won't win the NL MVP, but in my opinion, he is the Cub with the best chance. He can hit for power, decent average, and is a competent fielder. I really like this guy, and with some luck in the injury department, can put up very big numbers this coming season.
Poential star- Ryan Theriot
OK, Theriot is technically a very good player, he isn't a sleeper. But how many people realize how good he could really be? On a bad day, a top 3 NL Central SS, on a good day, possibly the best. Versatile, hits for a good average, gets you runs, and has decent speed. Only minus is his lack of power, in which he is possibly the worst in the Majors amongst starting hitters, but still, very good.
Future star- Carlos Marmol
What to say? As I have said in a previous post, he won't be an elite closer in his first season. But mark my words that I say now....Marmol will be an elite, 35-40 saves guy within 3 years. What makes me say this? I have no real stats to back it up. I am not a scout. What I have see though, is a man with Major League experience, who is still relatively young for a pitcher, who as the arm to be a great closer. I always thought he should have been closer last year instead of Gregg, and here is his chance to shine.
Potential MVP candidate- Aramis Ramirez....
This guy has the potential to be lights out this year. He won't win the NL MVP, but in my opinion, he is the Cub with the best chance. He can hit for power, decent average, and is a competent fielder. I really like this guy, and with some luck in the injury department, can put up very big numbers this coming season.
Poential star- Ryan Theriot
OK, Theriot is technically a very good player, he isn't a sleeper. But how many people realize how good he could really be? On a bad day, a top 3 NL Central SS, on a good day, possibly the best. Versatile, hits for a good average, gets you runs, and has decent speed. Only minus is his lack of power, in which he is possibly the worst in the Majors amongst starting hitters, but still, very good.
Future star- Carlos Marmol
What to say? As I have said in a previous post, he won't be an elite closer in his first season. But mark my words that I say now....Marmol will be an elite, 35-40 saves guy within 3 years. What makes me say this? I have no real stats to back it up. I am not a scout. What I have see though, is a man with Major League experience, who is still relatively young for a pitcher, who as the arm to be a great closer. I always thought he should have been closer last year instead of Gregg, and here is his chance to shine.