Chicago Cubs Predictions: Looking to the 2018 season

Jeff Burdick

Unless injuries hit, I expect a 98-win Cubs to be the top NL playoff seed. The march to the division title should be steady and uneventful, with the Brewers finishing nine games back. I expect eight of the 15 NL teams to again be under .500, giving Maddon ample opportunities to rest his starters (especially Lester and Darvish).

In the playoffs, it primarily comes down to our young bats. Last year, they lost their grinding, disciplined plate approach, especially against the Dodgers. If they can maintain good ABs, they should better pressure elite playoff pitching to reach the World Series. However, I do fear a better Red Sox bullpen and slightly better defense will decide an otherwise coin-flip series.

NL Central Standings: 

1. Cubs – 98 wins
2. Brewers -89 wins
3. Cardinals – 81 wins
4. Pittsburgh -73 wins
5. Reds – 64 wins

Brian Thomas

NL Central Standings:

1. Cubs
2. Brewers
3. Cardinals
4. Reds
5. Pirates

Jake Misener

NL Central Standings:

1. Cubs
2. Cardinals
3. Brewers
4. Reds
5. Pirates

Nicholas Blazek

I don’t see any reason why the Cubs shouldn’t run away with the division this season. While the Cardinals and Brewers made some solid additions, the Cubs already were good. And they only got better with he addition of Yu Darvish and Tyler Chatwood. The bullpen will likely have some questions about it as we enter the season. But I think that they’ll answer the call and be one of the top five in the NL.

As long as the Cubs stay healthy to a degree, they can focus on getting past the “hangover” they experienced last season and look to get back to the World Series.

NL Central Standings:

1. Cubs
2. Cardinals
3. Brewers
4. Reds
5. Pirates