Chicago Cubs News: Podcast returns; Cubs picked for division

The Chicago Cubs are favored in most prediction models to win the NL Central. And we’ve brought back our official Cubbies Crib podcast, Climbing the Ivy, so be sure to check that out as well.

Many of the predictions and forecasts for the Chicago Cubs have come out in recent days. Most of this is for the benefit of Fantasy Baseball, but it adds a little bit of fun to what to expect. USA Today once again picked the Cubs to win the division with a 92-70 season, six games better than the Milwaukee Brewers at 86-76. While the gap has been narrowed in the division, the Cubs still have the most talent of anyone. But you still have to go out and play the game.

For the past five years, the podcast has come and gone as we’ve found it difficult in our lives to find time for it. But now, the Climbing the Ivy podcast has returned this season. We take a look at not just the Cubs news, but all the happenings from around the league. We’re already four episodes into this season, but not all that regular. But with a catchy new intro written and performed by our own Adam McGinnis, how can we not do this every week?

Mike Montgomery has spoken on his desire to start for the Cubs–or someone else, for that matter. But honestly, can you blame him? Montgomery is simply looking for some consistency in his preparation. And it’s hard when you’re a reliever and a spot starter to go deep into games–one of the things he’s lambasted on for not doing–when you don’t prepare to go every day. It’s a fine line he has to walk as he prepares for this season.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘USA Today predicts another division title for Cubs’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Climbing the Ivy podcast returns to Cubbies Crib’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Montgomery seeking consistency in his role’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Brewers, Twins raise stakes in Darvish pursuit’ – MLB.com

‘Why no one will ever hit .400 again’ – ESPN

#Cubs on Twitter

Next: Is Almora ready to be the leadoff man?

Be sure to check back later today for more Cubs news and analysis! And follow us on our Twitter @CubbiesCrib, like our Facebook page and follow us on G+!