Cubbage

Although they were the first team to clinch a division in the National League this year, The Cubs have been overlooked by most baseball fans gong into the playoffs. Hoever, they have just as much chance to advance to the World Series- and win it- as any other team. A lot of emphesis was put on their poor start, but they finish well, despite a slow finish.

First things first - the AL looks awesome this year. All four teams, despite flaws, seem likely to take it.

But like last year, the little underdog could win it all. In the baseball playoff, pitching takes on an otherworldly importance. Although they have their ups and downs, the Cubs seem to have as solid staff as anyone in the NL. Zambrano will respond big, and I look to him to have a great postseason. Lilly and Hill have had great years. Hopefully Marquis can respond. But those four starters should stand the Cubs well. I believe their starting pitching is better than Arizona's for the first round @ least.

And the offense is doing well. The big hitters have all had solid years, but below what they usually do. It's the lesser players, like De rosa and Jones, who will have to come up with key hits.

Anything can happen in baseball. It's why they play so many games in the regular season- it all averages out- hopefully. But sometimes things go askew-look @ last years 83 win Cardinals.