Chicago Cubs: Who stands in the way of the NL Pennant?

Oct 7, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Chicago Cubs left fielder Kris Bryant (17) high fives his teammates during introductions prior to the National League Wild Card playoff baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 7, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Chicago Cubs left fielder Kris Bryant (17) high fives his teammates during introductions prior to the National League Wild Card playoff baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
1 of 9
Oct 7, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Chicago Cubs left fielder Kris Bryant (17) high fives his teammates during introductions prior to the National League Wild Card playoff baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Oddsmakers like the Chicago Cubs in 2016, but they won’t be the only team vying for the NL’s best. Who could stand in their way?

It has already been established that the Chicago Cubs are a heavy favorite to win the World Series in 2016 thanks in large part to the team’s successful offseason adds. However, before champagne bottles can be popped on the Northside, we must acknowledge the competitors — or blockades in the road if you will — that pose a threat to the Cubs’ quest to win it all.

While nothing is guaranteed, the Cubs additions make them a legitimate contender, although some other teams may see it differently as far as who the favorite is.

The following list includes the best teams in the National League in no particular order with a short summary of their offseason and reasons why they will be competitive.

Next: The Rival

Schedule