Chicago Cubs News: Despite weaknesses in NLCS, Cubs not going away

The Chicago Cubs were exposed in the NLCS by the Los Angeles Dodgers. But they’re still a good team with a little bit of work to do. The core is still there. But change might be coming for this roster.

The Chicago Cubs offense was dreadful in the playoffs. In the NLDS against the Nationals and the NLCS against the Dodgers. But even with that, they made it to Game 5 of the NLCS against the best team in baseball. So while it was disappointing, there’s hope that the Cubs will be back. First order of business will be pitching. The starting pitching is likely to lose John Lackey and Jake Arrieta, barring a miracle. The bullpen will get an overhaul, as well. The offense could use an established leadoff hitter, but they were still second in the league in runs scored without one. The Cubs will need to find consistency from their lineup, and that includes Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo.

While some have panicked with the NLCS loss to the Dodgers that the “window” is closing, that’s far from the truth. The Cubs core is still in place, and have had several other players in the last two years emerge. So even with the farm system depleted to an extent, the Cubs can deal from their depth to address the pitching needs they have following this season. But make no mistake, this team is built for the long haul. Three-straight NLCS appearances weren’t the end, but the just the beginning.

It wasn’t the type of finish the Cubs’ “Bryzzo” were hoping for. But while the playoffs didn’t offer much for the two sluggers, it gave them something to work on for the offseason. Rizzo and Bryant both set career-highs in several categories. But they also fell short in places, as well. Bryant batted just .119 in “high-leverage” situations. With just 74 RBI on the season, Bryant realizes that he left several runs on the bases, especially during the playoffs. There is room for improvement, and these two will find it.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Offseason will be filled with change for Cubs’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs remain one of the most talented teams in the NL’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Bryzzo will return better than ever in 2018’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Astros beat Yanks, force Game 7’ – MLB.com

‘Baker won’t return as Nats manager in ’18‘ – ESPN

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