Chicago Cubs: Your way too early 2018 season predictions

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WASHINGTON, DC – OCTOBER 12: Bryce Harper #34 of the Washington Nationals reacts after hitting a sacrifice fly against the Chicago Cubs during the seventh inning in game five of the National League Division Series at Nationals Park on October 12, 2017 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

Harpermania will heat up in August

Dave Martinez refuses to admit Bryce Harper is leaving after the 2018 season to continue his budding bromance with Kris Bryant. One year out, Cubs fans are already salivating at the thought. Could Chicago add the NL-equivalent to Mike Trout to an organization already boasting several players heading into their prime?

Money won’t be a problem, even with impending pay raises coming for Bryant, Contreras and Rizzo. A new television deal forthcoming, a massive nationwide following and another division title may be all the convincing Harper needs.

I believe a healthy Noah Syndergaard in New York, coupled with Philadelphia’s desire to rebuild quickly will make the East a much tougher division. Let’s not forget Washington’s lineup shortcomings: Daniel Murphy, perhaps the best all-around second baseman in the National League, will miss playing time early.

The Nationals’ biggest strength? Its dominant trio of Max Scherzer, Stephen Strasburg and Gio Gonzalez atop the rotation. In other words, Harper may want to join a more youthful ball club with equally deep pockets in a larger market. Enter the Chicago Cubs.

So midway through the 2018 season, expect Harpermania to erupt in Chicago.

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