(670 The Score) As an uncertain future looms for the Cubs, second-year manager David Ross hasn’t changed his standard.
He has high expectations after the Cubs won the NL Central in the shortened 2020 season, and he knows exactly who needs to lead them there.
“Our superstars are the ones who will carry us,” Ross said. “Our everyday players are the ones we will rely on to do what they know how to do and continue to win. These guys have been winners for a long time. We will continue to ride those guys and the complementary pieces we have added to the group.”
Three of those whom Ross will be counting on are first baseman Anthony Rizzo, shortstop Javier Baez and third baseman Kris Bryant. Each is on a path to be free agent after the 2021 season, which means this is likely a last ride for the Cubs’ core. Ross understands that can hang over the team all season, but he believes his Cubs are focused as they prepare to host the Pirates at Wrigley Field on Opening Day on Thursday.
"We have handled our own little bubble in a great way this spring,” Ross said. “There has been a sense of these guys coming together with a lot to prove. They have played and worked diligently at their craft. To me, they are ready to start the season. I couldn't be happier from the manager's seat the way the spring has gone and where we feel we are headed in 2021. We are really looking forward to the start of the season.”
While the Cubs had a rather quiet offseason in that they didn’t make any high-profile additions, they did sign outfielder Joc Pederson, who has had a great spring. From seeing that and more in Cactus League play, Ross is confident in his club.
"We have pieces that complement each other really well,” Ross said. "We have a great defense. I feel we have really good contact bats off of the bench. I think our pitching staff will surprise some people. We have some great starters that really know how to pitch. We have a bullpen that matches up really well with a lot of different looks. We have a legit closer. I am excited about this group and excited to get back to Wrigley Field and play in front of our great fans.”
The Cubs will also have to rely on a new-look rotation that only has one member returning from the start of the 2020 season – ace Kyle Hendricks. Behind him will be four more right-handers: Jake Arrieta, Zach Davies, Trevor Williams and Adbert Alzolay.
It’s largely a rotation that lacks velocity and which will have to rely on precision.
"We don't have any guys who will throw in triple digits, but we do have guys who throw with tremendous movement, great command and a wide array of pitches,” Arrieta said. “We have guys that can get it done by sinking it, cutting it and using good curveballs. We also have Adbert, who has the ability to pitch up in the strike zone.”
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.