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Chicago Cubs News: Heyward’s comeback; The intentional walk changes

By Nicholas D. Blazek

Oct 29, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs right fielder Jason Heyward (22) hits a single against the Cleveland Indians during the fourth inning in game four of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 29, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs right fielder Jason Heyward (22) hits a single against the Cleveland Indians during the fourth inning in game four of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Chicago Cubs won a World Series last year, and that was for the most part without the help of Jason Heyward. This season, the Cubs will need him–and he’s doing his share to make sure he can contribute.

Last season was a miserable one for Jason Heyward. His words during the rain delay of the World Series helped spark the Cubs–but that was his shining achievement last year. His defense was still an asset, as he took home another NL Gold Glove. But the Cubs will need more from him in 2017 at the plate. Heyward started putting in work right after the World Series ended. Will it pay off?

It might not seem like much, but the change to the intentional walk is another step taken by the league to shorten game times for fans. A manager will now simply give a signal from the dugout, and the player will be awarded first base without the four wide ones. The perception on how this would affect fans was minimal. And while I wasn’t for it, it won’t change the game much at all.

The 300-win Club is a special group. But after a wave of pitchers joined it in the last 15 years, it’s not looking promising for any new members. It takes durability and talent–and a winning team to have a chance at it. But does anyone still want to pitch that much to even get close to it?

Oh, Sammy. Sammy Sosa was in the news for–well, there’s just too much to get into here. But just know that he won’t beg for the Cubs’ forgiveness, and he put Cubs baseball on the map. Did I mention he compared himself to Jesus Christ? Yeah, that happened too.

These stories and more than you might have missed:

‘Heyward primed for big comeback’ – Cubbies Crib

‘MLB approves changes for intentional walks’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Will any pitcher win 300 games again?’ – MLB.com

‘Sosa compares himself to Christ in interview’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs hosting plenty of pitchers in early weeks’ – Cubbies Crib

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