April 03--April 17: Vs. Padres. Is this the day Kris Bryant arrives at Wrigley Field for his major-league debut?
May 4-7: At Cardinals. It's early for a "statement series," but this rates as a chance to see how the Cubs rank with the class of the National League Central.
May 25-27: Vs. Nationals. The Cubs could be looking at a blueprint for an NL contender as team brass considers adding a David Price or Jordan Zimmermann for 2016.
June 8: Major-league draft. With the ninth pick the Cubs could use a fast-track pitcher, but scouting director Jason McLeod's track record is tough to knock.
June 9-10: At Tigers. Would it be tampering if the Cubs say more than "hello" to Price?
June 22-25: Vs. Dodgers. Will the right-field bleachers be ready by then?
July 10-12: Vs. White Sox. It's about time both teams can stick their chests out before competing for city supremacy.
July 31: At Brewers. This Cubs regime never has stood pat at the trade deadline, and they have the resources to add a big-ticket player if they're in contention.
Aug. 6: Vs. Giants. This time the Wrigley tarp will be spooled properly.
Sept. 18-20: Vs. Cardinals. Last chance for the Cubs to spoil their rival's season and perhaps take a big step toward the playoffs.
