Jon Lester’s bad outing can still help the Chicago Cubs

It’s going to happen. Even the greatest athletes in any sport will have a bad game from time to time. Beneath the surface, we will judge the best by how they handle the adversity. The Chicago Cubs received their first lesson on Monday.

Jon Lester‘s statline included a few crooked numbers. The Washington state native yielded six runs on seven hits over 3 1/3 innings of work, highlighted by two long balls. Despite the rough performance, the Cubs’ ace chose to lead by example. The winning attitude must be present in March if it ever hopes to be present in October. After agreeing to sign in the offseason, Lester knows that everyone in the locker room is looking to him as the model.

This is exactly what the Cubs are in desperate need of. A leader who will not change the way he goes about his work regardless of the time of year. Lester embodies a consistent work ethic that is contagious to anyone close to him. Even in a spring training game, while other players work on getting in shape and getting a tan, Lester preaches results.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s now or in October, I’m still taking the same mindset.” -Jon Lester

It’s becoming clear as we approach April that there is a different feel coming from Mesa. This team, with these players, are learning that great things don’t happen to you, they happen for you when proper preparation is taken. Its comforting to know that we have manager in Joe Maddon and player like Lester who derive from the same belief. Jon Lester chose Chicago because he has a goal. If he can get everyone to buy in to what he represents, his Legacy will be secured.

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