Morning Marquee: Jed Hoyer believes young hitters key to Cubs success

Jed Hoyer recently sat down with ESPN’s Jesse Rogers to talk about the upcoming season, and realizes the group of young hitters coming through will be a key to the Cubs success. “Our biggest challenge is going to be how young hitters adjust to big league pitching. Some guys have started to make that transition, some guys haven’t. That’s our biggest unknown.” said Hoyer. The Cubs will lean on some of the newly acquired veterans to help balance the struggles of the kids as they look to be competitive in the NL Central.

With a change in policy for signing Cuban players, the negotiation process for 19-year-old Yoan Moncada could speed up. The changes come on the heels of the U.S. and Cuba rebuilding their relationship. Moncada is expected to be high, with the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers at the top of the list, with the Cubs a distant suitor.

Angels’ outfielder Josh Hamilton‘s Opening Day may be in doubt as he will have shoulder surgery to repair the AC joint in his right shoulder. Hamilton dealt with pain in his right side much of last season, and played in only one of the Angels final 23 regular-season games – then going 0-for-13 in the ALDS. This is a pivotal season for Hamilton, and not being ready for it isn’t a good start.

These and other stories from around the league:

‘Jed Hoyer: Cubs’ young hitters key to success’ – Cubbies Crib

‘MLB nixes Cuban requirement, Moncada deal could be near’ – ESPN.com

‘Angels’ Hamilton to have right shoulder surgery’ – ESPN.com

‘Best remaining free-agents at each position’ – Call to the Pen

‘Salazar under investigation for possible sexual assault‘- Wahoos on First