Chicago Cubs News: Lester named Opening Day starter; Anderson encouraged

 The Chicago Cubs ended the “drama” of naming their Opening Day starter as Jon Lester was tabbed Thursday. Joe Maddon said he knew who he would pick, but wanted to talk to all those involved.

When you take a look at the Chicago Cubs pitching staff, Joe Maddon could have very easily named any of the top three the Opening Day starter and nobody would have blinked an eye. With that said, Jon Lester absolutely earned it after his 19-win season last year. He’ll be followed by Jake Arrieta and then Kyle Hendricks to round out the top three.

For Brett Anderson, he’s just happy being healthy this far into Spring Training. That sounds silly, but his season was cut short while throwing BP last year. The Cubs believe he and Mike Montgomery will be steady in the No. 5 spot. Anderson is growing used to his new routine after back surgery and is looking forward to a healthy 2017 season.

Was there bad blood between Jason Hammel and the Cubs? Or was it possible he was hurt down the stretch? The Cubs made it sound if they had moved on to give Hammel a chance to sign elsewhere as they knew they wanted to go younger at the position. The more the two sides talk about it, the more it makes you wonder.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Lester named Opening Day Starter for Cubs’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Anderson encouraged early in Spring Training’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Hammel talks Cubs, free agency’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Mets prospect catches bat like it’s no big deal’ – MLB.com

‘Happ, Jimenez drive in runs in loss to Reds’ – Cubbies Crib

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