Chicago Cubs News: Rotation set for NLCS; Roster due today

Oct 14, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jon Lester (34) talks with media in a press conference before workouts the day prior to the start of the NLCS baseball series at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 14, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jon Lester (34) talks with media in a press conference before workouts the day prior to the start of the NLCS baseball series at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Cubs have set their rotation for the NLCS, with the roster to be revealed today. There could be some subtle changes by Maddon for the series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The only question for the Chicago Cubs rotation was the health of Kyle Hendricks. That’s been checked off as he will pitch Game 2 of the NLCS at Wrigley Field. Jon Lester will open the series and will be followed in the same order as the NLDS. After Lester, it’ll be Hendricks, then Jake Arrieta and John Lackey. The possible marquee matchup of pitchers in this series? Hendricks against Clayton Kershaw in Game 2, should he be ready. Not many could have predicted that one.

Everyone did their part in the win against the San Francisco Giants. But the Cubs will need a better effort from a few others in the LCS. Specifically, Addison Russell and Anthony Rizzo. And don’t forget, this is Russell’s first taste of the NLCS as he missed last years with a hamstring injury.

When venturing online, you’ll find that Cubs’ fans are a rare breed. Even in victory, some are simply waiting for the heartbreak of defeat to snatch them from behind. But this year–it just feels different. We’re moving away from “We’ll at least we got this far” to “I think we can do this”. When a people or nation unite, they need a symbol. That symbol for many is a flag. Well, we have that, so I think it’s time to unite as Cubs Nation.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Cubs announce NLCS rotation’– Cubbies Crib

‘Four players that need to step up in the NLCS’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Here we are again Cubs’ faithful, on the doorstep’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Tribe takes 1-0 lead in ALCS over Toronto’ – Wahoo’s on First

Cubs have embraced the pressure all along’ – ESPN

#Cubs on Twitter

Next: Is Chapman getting overworked?

Be sure to check back throughout the day as we’ll have loads of coverage leading up to tonight’s NLCS opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Also, we’ll have pregame notes and post game coverage following the final out.