Chicago Cubs: Starting rotation for the playoffs can be deadly

For the third year in a row, the Chicago Cubs are presented with the hardest challenge: winning in the playoffs. The second hardest? Setting the rotation.

Never in our lifetime have we witnessed what occurred this season. Not only did the Chicago Cubs overcome a five and a half game deficit midseason, but they also made the playoffs for the third year in a row. And, they won their division again.

It was a tough year. The rotation allowed first-inning runs at an alarming rate to start the season. The offense sputtered. The defense was just okay. It certainly was not the same Chicago Cubs team we saw last year.

Still, they turned it around, playing to the best record in baseball during the second half of the season. Now, they prepare for the biggest challenge in the sport. Winning the World Series for a second year in a row would be something to behold. To make it, they need to win eleven games, starting with three against the Washington Nationals.

The biggest question? How does manager Joe Maddon set the rotation? Five pitchers for four true spots. Here is how I see it shaking out.