Chicago Cubs: Pitchers and catchers report today; Schwarber making noise

May 11, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jon Lester (34) pitches during the first inning against the New York Mets at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports
May 11, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jon Lester (34) pitches during the first inning against the New York Mets at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports

We’ve been waiting for this moment since the Chicago Cubs were eliminated from the National League Championship Series by the New York Mets. Now, pitchers and catchers will be reporting to training camp in sunny Mesa, Arizona with another run at the postseason on their minds.

It’ll be great to see National League Cy Young winner Jake Arrieta back in the mix following his new one-year contract. Joining Arrieta and Jon Lester will be veteran right-hander John Lackey who is expected to be Joe Maddon‘s third starter in the rotation.

Following them will be Kyle Hendricks at the No. 4 spot in the rotation with the fifth and final spot up for grabs. Jason Hammel appears to be the favorite to win the job but he’ll have some competition throughout Cactus League play.

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While the starting five puts in work, outfielder and catcher Kyle Schwarber made a little noise yesterday during batting practice. The young slugger who helped sink both the Pittsburgh Pirates and St. Louis Cardinals when it counted smashed a car windshield with a home run ball in Arizona.

People in the area should consider that a warning. You don’t want to find out that your windshield was shattered thanks to a member of the Chicago Cubs. Sure, you’d receive a bit of attention from it and you might find it hilarious, but be cautious when you pick a parking spot.

Soon, the entire club will be in Arizona and prepping for their first Spring Training game of the new season. There will be plenty of headlines to come with Matt Murton returning, Albert Almora getting into the swing of things and of course, Ben Zobrist, Jason Heyward, and Lackey wearing new colors.

Here are a few articles you may have missed:

Kyle Schwarber’s bat already making news‘ – Cubbies Crib

Jed Hoyer talks versatility, value within 2016 Cubs‘ – Cubbies Crib

Cubs add several names to Spring Training roster‘ – Cubbies Crib

Orioles close to signing Dexter Fowler‘- MLB

Spring Training cheat sheet‘ – MLB