Jan. 14--The schedule for the three-day Cubs Convention isn't much different from past conventions.
But the hype following a 97-win season heightened by the appearances of newcomers Jason Heyward, John Lackey and Ben Zobrist, along with the return of Hall of Fame second baseman Ryne Sandberg, could make for one of the most festive gatherings in the 31-year history of the event.
The hope is that loyal fans who have paid health sums of money to attend the event at the Sheraton Grand Chicago will get many opportunities to ask questions during numerous sessions.
Saturday promises to be an informative day, with Cubs executives discussing their plans, business executives providing Wrigley Field renovation updates and newcomers greeting Cubs fans for the first time in a large setting.
The festivities conclude Sunday with former Cubs greats scheduled to speak, as well as player development and scouting officials discussing the organization's prospects.
Here's are some of the more pertinent sessions:
Friday
--6:00 p.m. -- 7:00 p.m. Opening Ceremony
Saturday, January 16
--9:00 a.m. -- 10:00 a.m. Ricketts Family
--10:30 a.m. -- 11:30 a.m. Baseball Management
--11:45 a.m. -- 12:45 p.m. Joe Maddon and His Coaching Staff
--12:45 p.m. -- 1:45 p.m. Cubs Business Operations Update
--2:00 p.m. -- 3:00 p.m. Meet the New Cubs
--3:00 p.m. -- 4:00 p.m. Rock Star Rookies, presented by Wintrust
Sunday
--9:00 a.m. -- 10:00 a.m. Once a Cub, Always a Cub
--10:30 a.m. -- 11:30 a.m. Down on the Farm
