Chicago Cubs News: Cubs bullpen; Too much pressure?

There was plenty of pressure on the Chicago Cubs last season, but they finished the job. Could there be even more this season as they look to repeat? It sounds silly, but it could be true.

The Chicago Cubs will look to repeat–well, their last repeat–from 1907 and 1908. After winning their first World Series in 108 years, is it possible there could be more pressure on them this year than there was last?

The pressure from outside sources won’t be any different than it was last season. It’s what they might put on themselves that could make or break their chances in 2017.

Part of winning that championship last year was outfielder Jason Heyward’s now-famous weight room speech during the Game 7 rain delay. Asked about it this week as full squad workouts began, Hayward looked back on his speech.

More from Cubbies Crib

• Cubs should keep close eye on non-tender candidate Cody Bellinger
• Cubs starting pitching has been thriving on the North Side
• Make no mistake: the Cubs are very much about power hitters
• Cubs are giving pitcher Javier Assad a deserved shot
• Cubs: It’s time to start thinking about potential September call-ups

In 2016, it was Aroldis Chapman who shut the door for the Chicago Cubs down the stretch. Who will it be alongside Wade Davis this season? Will Carl Edwards Jr. get a long look or is Hector Rondon the go-to choice?

All this, and more, in today’s Morning Marquee.

‘Could the pressure to repeat be too much?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Heyward unaware of effect of his WS speech’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Changed strike zone could hurt Cubs’ starters’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Are changes coming to BP at MLB games?’ – Cubbies Crib