Chicago Cubs: What songs depicts Cubs performances this Spring

Track 1: We Ready

I spent several years working college basketball games, and this song was used when teams took the court. Now, it can be the theme song for several of the young Chicago Cubs players.

After two weeks, each of the top four hitting prospects for the Cubs is batting over .300. Ian Happ is leading the way with a .375/.400/.635 split, with four runs scored and five knocked in. Top Prospect Eloy Jimenez is not far behind. In 12 games, he has collected eight hits, scored four times, and pushed through three more.

The largest surprise of the Spring is Jeimer Candelario. While the potential to hit for power is there, performing with a high average was an afterthought. A bonus to what he can do. This Spring, the performance for the #96 prospect for MLB.com is opening eyes. So far, Candelario is hitting .333 with two doubles, two triples, and six runs scored. This in 30 at-bats.

Then there is Albert Almora. Batting to the tune of a .304/.333/.609 split, the Cubs are finally seeing what they need from him. Will it be enough to earn the starting job in center field? Maybe, but the trend must continue. To this point, Almora and the other top prospects are showing that they are ready.

Track #2: Money

Another major story from this Spring is not tied to performance. At least not entirely. However, if things continue, a couple players are going to be losing money.

With word coming out that Jake Arrieta wants a contract in the neighborhood of $200 million, many fans believe he is out the door. That is an honest possibility. However, his performance of late does not warrant that type of contract. Sure, he won a Cy Young in 2015, but even he has admitted to not performing as well now as he did them.

I won’t dive too much into numbers here, but 2016 was Arrieta’s third best full season with the Chicago Cubs. In 2015, he completed four games and had two shutouts. In both 2014 and 2016, those numbers were one each. His ERA in 2016 was over a half a point higher that in 2014. His wild pitches jumped to 16 after only 14 combined the previous years. He needs to rebound from a below average first performance this Spring.

Another player that is going to lose money is Jason Heyward. Right now, I hope he has direct deposit for his paychecks because he is stealing funds. Last year was a poor season offensively. In order to fix the problems, Heyward spent the offseason working on his approach at the plate. Yet, in 21 at-bats, he has two hits. Granted one was a home run, and he does have five RBI so far; however, .095 average is not what he needs.

It is a process, and this is just Spring Training. However, there is money on the line. And the chance at another World Series title.

Track #3: Bye Bye Bye

I am going to do this right. It may start a fight. But, I do not want to be a fool anymore. I have had enough. So…..

It is time to say goodbye to a few players. I hate saying it, but it is true.

So, bye-bye to Zac Rosscup. A career ERA of 5.40 in 61 games with the Cubs, Rosscup was non-tendered at the end of 2016, making his a free agent. He was invited back to camp this year. In his 3 games so far, batters are hitting .417 against him, and his ERA is a robust 10.13.

Also, there are couple other pitchers that have yet to impress this Spring and there is no room for them on the Cubs roster. Dylan Floro gave up four runs to the Mariners on Friday. Add to the list, Caleb Smith. While I was hopeful for you both, I am not convinced that you are ready. With a team loaded with talent, you need more time to grow.

As for offensive players, bye-bye Tommy La Stella. After your antics last year, and the production we are seeing from prospects thus far, it is time to part ways. Sure, you are batting .500 this Spring, but you only have four at-bats.

Track #4: Sleeper

Let me introduce to one of my favorite songs and bands.

Sleeper

by Snarky Puppy is a groovy collaboration of funk and hip-hop. This talented group reminds me of the Chicago Cubs with their depth and skill, performing together in a versatile manner. And, Shaun Martin’s performance and energy on the talk-box is MVP level.

Just like this group and track, there are a couple of sleepers on the Cubs who will perform versatile roles. First, there is Matt Szczur. This Spring has been impressive for the young outfielder. With an average of .352 with two triples and four runs batted in, Szczur is showing growth and ability to step up.

Koji Uehara is also showing well this Spring. When others on the pitching staff are allowing runs to cross the plate, the veteran reliever has yet to give up a hit. As a matter of fact, only one batter has reached base against Uehara. With the importance the bullpen will play this season, the acquisition of Uehara is a but if a sleeper move.

If I were to pick a prospect as a sleeper those far, it would be Ryan Williams. In 13 innings pitched for his Spring Training career, he has yet to allow a run. That includes all four innings this Spring. While he will likely start the season in Iowa, the Cubs could come calling mid-season.

Track #5: We Are the Champions

There is a new attitude at camp this year. While it is not quite a “take it easy” approach, it is one that is delaying the preparation of the Chicago Cubs regulars. With the length of the season in 2016, plus the extending of Spring Training due to the World Baseball Classic, Manager

Joe Maddon

is taking his time in give the regulars their time.

But, they are the Champions. They are coming into the season as the reigning World Series Champions. The team knows what it takes to win, and being healthy and rested at the end of the season is what matters most.

The starting rotation had pitched one game each to this point. Anthony Rizzo, Addison Russell, and Ben Zobrist have fewer than 15 at-bats thus far. But, there is no need to push them now. Even with the limited time, they have a combined three home runs, eight RBI, and eight walks. They will be fine.

Furthermore, they are not concerned about winning or losing right now. After being their starts last week, both Jake Arrieta and John Lackey talked about the process and how they are getting ready.

Next: Which minor league players could make an impact in 2017?

The goal of the team is simple: win. Sure, they may create t-shirts with fun slogans on them, but preparing for the stretch after the 162 game season remains paramount. No need to worry about winning in the Spring, whether it is on the road or at home. The end of the season is the focus.