Chicago Cubs: Five players who need big seasons in 2017

The Chicago Cubs sport one of the best rosters in the major leagues. With the success of the five players listed here, the Cubs become even more potent than the club that won it all a year ago.

Albert Almora is the center fielder of the future for the Cubs, and will need a good 2017 to cement his name on the position for the next decade.

The Cubs shelled out a franchise-record deal for Heyward. So far, they’re paying the outfielder for defense – with no expectations at the dish. To be sure, that needs to change, and soon. This season could be the year that it does as he looks better at the plate early in the season.

Javier Baez will be with the Cubs for many years if he can solve his strikeout problem. If not, the Cubs have some interesting options behind him, but expect Baez to have a breakout season now that he can play more.

Brett Anderson was brought in on a one-year deal, and is impressing fans so far. If he can stay healthy, then good things are in store for the lefty.

Finally, Kyle Schwarber needs to get his career back on track after injury forced him to miss much of 2016. Schwarber possess’ great talent and power that he will be able to channel for a full season. Expect many long balls.

Next: Chicago Cubs players aren’t worried about slow start: so why are fans?