Chicago Cubs: Five players that must step up in second half

The first half is done, and most of the Chicago Cubs are on a much-needed break. When play resumes on Friday, key players must step up.

(Slowly waves hand at television) This is not the Chicago Cubs we are looking for. Dang it. That didn’t work.

Anyone have a magic lamp? I could really use one of Genie’s wishes right now.

The feelings we as fans of the Chicago Cubs are experiencing are nothing new. We know about teams not performing up to expectations. How many times did we witness the team just collapse? More times than we ever want.

The only difference between then and now is the two seasons of extraordinary success that preceded this year. And, the team is relatively the same from last year to this year. Sure, there are a few changes, but nothing so drastic that the Cubs should play this poorly.

Trades will be discussed. Twitter is already blowing up with speculation of trades with the Detroit Tigers. Word to the wise: never listen to rumors, especially from certain sources. Especially if those rumors are from someone with the name of “Jim Bowden.”

However, the talent of this team is too great and should be relied on more than any acquisition. Sure, getting Aroldis Chapman helped last season, but that was a dire need. This team just needs to step it up.

And it starts with five players.