Chicago Cubs boast plenty of under-the-radar storylines entering season

By now, you surely know all about the major storylines surrounding the Chicago Cubs heading into the 2019 regular season. What about the overlooked?

How will the Chicago Cubs hold up amidst early injuries and setbacks? Can Yu Darvish redeem himself in the second year of his massive contract? Are Kris Bryant and Willson Contreras ready to back up their motivational talk with production on the field?

Because the Cubs did not make a big splash in free agency, there have been plenty of internal happenings to focus on during these past five-plus months. First, it was manager Joe Maddon‘s lame-duck status heading into 2019. Then, Addison Russell‘s off-the-field issues took center stage before the Ricketts’ patriarch’s controversial comments and the partnership with Sinclair Broadcast Group stole the show.

With Opening Day just over a week away, the more permanent focus can finally shift back to baseball. However, there are also a number of other noteworthy storylines to keep in mind heading into the regular season.