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Cubs’ Jon Lester ‘marks the start of a new transition’ for team
By David Miniel
We’re five days off from the Chicago Cubs and free-agent left-handed pitcher Jon Lester agreeing on a six-year deal after competing with the Boston Red Sox and the San Francisco Giants for his services.
Today, alongside vice-president and general manager Jed Hoyer, Cubs’ president Theo Epstein officially introduced Lester to the media with a familiar jersey number under their new aces’ name. Epstein stated during Monday’s press conference that Lester’s signing marked the start of a transition for the Cubs.
"“The start of a period where we are clearly very serious about winning the World Series” Theo Epstein via UT San Diego."
With the additions (besides Lester) of Maddon, Jason Hammel, Miguel Montero, and now Jason Motte, the Cubs have grabbed the attention of the rest of the league knowing the amount of young talent on this roster, and more brewing in the minor league circuit.
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Lester, who was accompanied by his four-year-old son Hudson, told reporters that he’s going into the 2015 campaign with intentions of winning it all. This is something that recently hired manager Joe Maddon also mentioned during his very own media introduction not too long ago, which isn’t much of a surprise.
Approximately 1,686 players (via ESPN) have worn a Cubs uniform dating back to the final out of the 1908 World Series against the Detroit Tigers and it’s been six years since they’ve reached the post-season.
"“The fact that we haven’t won in so long helps define who we are…I think it attracts players who aren’t afraid of that challenge and want to be here for the right reasons. It definitely attracted Jon Lester.” Theo Epstein."
As far as what number he would wear, Lester’s long-time 31 was worn by legendary pitchers Fergie Jenkins and Greg Maddux, a number that was retired in 2009. Epstein and Hoyer presented him with the number 34 on the back of his uniform which was worn by another Cubs’ great, Kerry Wood.