Feb. 16--An ascending team fortified by three impact free agents -- outfielder Jason Heyward, infielder/oufielder Ben Zobrist and starting pitcher John Lackey -- still has room for improvement.
Here are nine questions facing the Cubs in spring training.
Protecting the starters?
Jon Lester started too quickly and suffered dead-arm symptoms last spring. Jake Arrieta set a career high in innings, and Lackey, 37, threw 228 1/3 innings for the Cardinals in the regular season and playoffs. Spring might be a wise time to save their bullets for the regular season. The controlled setting of minor-league games might help ensure their stamina.
Kyle's best case?
After a rough finish in left field to end a successful rookie season, Kyle Schwarber is determined to improve his defensive skills behind the plate as well as in left. The Cubs don't have to decide on Schwarber's long-term position, but it's essential he improve at both positions to enhance their flexibility.
Cut the breeze?
A potent offense can improve if the Cubs can cut down on their franchise-record 1,518 strikeouts. It might be time for a few young players to heed manager Joe Maddon's advice of "keep your fastball hack loaded, look away first and choke up with two strikes."
Pleading the fifth?
Kyle Hendricks made 32 starts and threw 180 innings, but he'll be pushed for the fifth rotation spot by newcomer Adam Warren, Trevor Cahill, Clayton Richard and perhaps Travis Wood. With a dearth of dependable major-league-ready starters in the minors, developing starting depth becomes more essential.
Bullish on Baez?
Playing center field in the Puerto Rican league this winter was easier than infielder Javier Baez imagined. But he must continue to cut down on strikeouts to boost his value to the Cubs and interested teams.
Re-starting Soler?
Injuries and a lack of power stunted Jorge Soler's first full major-league season. His defense in right field could go a long way toward determining how long Heyward stays in center and how long Soler stays with the Cubs.
Shutting down the express lanes?
Lester wasn't the only culprit as opponents stole bases at will against the Cubs. Pitchers will work on varying times to home plate in hopes of giving catchers a better chance to nail base stealers.
Insurance for Rodon?
Maddon likes to give his closer an occasional breather, and that was evident in June when Hector Rondon struggled and Jason Motte filled in admirably. With Motte departed for the Rockies, who will fill in when Rondon isn't available?
Study hall for kids?
Schwarber benefited last spring from absorbing information from veteran catchers Miguel Montero and David Ross and coach Mike Borzello, and Kris Bryant improved his defense through early work with coach Gary Jones. It's imperative for youngsters such as Willson Contreras and Duane Underwood Jr. to pick up as much knowledge as possible in their first major-league camp.
mgonzales@tribpub.com
