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The Cubs completed a historic run in 2016. In order to accomplish that, some of the Cubs players had to post great seasons. They posted seasons so good that they will be impossible to repeat in 2017.
To say that the five players listed will regress in 2017 is not totally accurate. They will return closer to average this upcoming season. Yes, that means worse statistics than 2016, but for the most part, the numbers will still be above average.
The Cubs are a team stacked with talent. As their roster continues to grow and improve, expect much less regression from season to season.
Next: Chicago Cubs Recap: Lackey gives up early run as Cubs fall, 2-0 to the Dodgers
The North Siders will need each of these five players to have good seasons in 2017 if they hope to repeat as World Series Champions. Don’t expect them to be as good as they were in 2016, but they will be good enough to give the Cubs a shot to repeat.