Cubs coming out of long hibernation

It seems like we have come along away from the April 5th 2004 Sports Illustrated cover for the 2004 baseball season. That cover featured Kerry Wood with the now unbelievable words, "Hell Freezes Over The Cubs will Win the World Series" Since that time, the strongest part of the Cubs, the starting pitching, has greatly dissapointed, been constantly injured and is now rebuilt with youngsters and middle of the road pitchers.

In addition to the pitching, add a new manager and wholesale lineup changes and the 2007 Cubs are really a different species than the 2004 team that held so much promise but dissapointed so much. Kerry Wood, our cover boy, is now relegated to the bullpen. Frankly, I think this is a very good move that highlights his strengths and minimize his weeknesses. Mark Prior, in Lou Pinella's own words is a 'Wildcard'. What that means I don't know, but I do know that latest reports are that he is not throwing. This basically means he won't be ready for spring training. What has happened to Mark Prior is one of the great mysteries of the 21st century Cubs, but at least no one is relying on him. The other wildcard is Wade Miller. Maybe these wildcards will be pocket Aces, let's hope so.

Of course Big Z is still here and he will be counted on more than ever. With Maddux gone, the Marmols, Marshalls and Hills will have to develop on their own. If last year was good for anything, at least these pitchers got some valuable experience. There has been a lot of hand wringing on sports radio about Jason Marquis horrible second half last year. But he made 30 starts, is only 26 and has been really good in the past. Add this to the the perceived advantage Ted Lilly should have coming from a stronger American League the Cubs are looking much better. Don't forget, the Astros lost Andy Petite, will probably lose Clemens and the Cardinals pitching is all over the place.

Will all these changes add up to a winner in 2007? Still too early to tell, but we do know the Cubs have done the most to improve themselves in a week NL Central and have definitely addressed their weaknesses. This may not be 'the year' but it should be a very goood one. For a change.