Chicago Cubs: How the Cubs match-up with their NLCS opponent

May 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon (70) looks on during the fifth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
May 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon (70) looks on during the fifth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
10 of 10
Next
Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

Conclusion

There you have it. The Cubs hold an advantage when comparing position players. It is close in many places, but the depth of the Cubs puts them over the top.

Why not compare the benches? We could, and that be useful. But it is the regular players that will set the tone for the series. And, in many cases, the bench players perform as pinch-hitters only and many not see significant time. And, some may never get into the games.

Next: Chapman's workload too much?

The same can be done with the pitching staff. However, the starting rotation for the Chicago Cubs was the best in the majors, and there are still questions about the Dodgers’ rotation after Clayton Kershaw. Or even with Clayton Kershaw. Both pens feature solid options for match-ups or long relief. And, both closers are good. I still give the edge to the Cubs.

But, anything can happen in the NLCS. The series starts tonight!