Chicago Cubs: A look at the projected 2016 starting lineup

Dec 9, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Chicago Cubs newly signed infielder

speaks at a press conference during the MLB winter meetings at Gaylord Opryland Resort. Mandatory Credit:

-USA TODAY Sports

Second Base: Ben Zobrist

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, it was sad to hear that Castro’s time with the Chicago Cubs had officially run its course. This franchise has so many trade pieces available, it just so happened to be their six-year veteran who was on the chopping block.

But as most say, out with the old, in with the new. Which opened the door for former Tampa Bay Ray, Oakland Athletic, and Kansas City Royals utility man, Ben Zobrist.

Most of you know that the 34-year-old spent most of his career in Tampa Bay under Joe Maddon and bench coach Dave Martinez. He’s not that much of a threat when he’s in the batter’s box, but his glove and experience at other positions across the diamond make up for the lack of power.

It was surprising to hear that he opted to reunite with Maddon on the North Side of Chicago having an offer with more money on the table. He is, however, from Eureka, Illinois which is a little over two hours away from the Windy City in which he now has the opportunity to win his second World Series title with.

He ended the 2015 campaign with 13 homers, 56 RBI, 36 doubles, 129 hits, and three triples while slashing .276/.359/.450 between the Athletics and Royals. Not to mention, he started 16 playoff games for the defending champs.

Next: A Solid Replacement