FEB

14

I've come to the realization that previews aren't always accurate, especially ones written before Spring Training even starts. Since projections made this early can be thrown out the window because of a trade or an injury or the meteoric rise of a hot prospect, what's the point of making one? So I've decided to make my Chicago Cubs 2008 preview a two part series. An initial look at the team begins with this issue, by breaking the team down position-by-position and looking at the team as constructed right now. Then, before Opening Day, I would look and have a more accurate preview'of course having looking at what happened during Spring Training would be beneficial to making a more accurate projection. So, without further to do, my 2008 Cubs preview, Spring Training Edition. The Cubs strength is with their corner infielders. The anchor of the infield defense is first baseman Derrek Lee. His combination of range, athletic ability and baseball IQ are part of the reason he is a three-time Gold Glove winner. Offensively, 2007 was a down year for Lee posting only 22 home runs and 82 RBIs, despite posting a .317 batting average and .400 on-base percentage. Even though Chicago sports journalists report the contrary, Aramis Ramirez is improving on the defensive end, in fact, Ramirez might be the best defensive third baseman in the Central Division or'dare I say'the entire National League. Offensively, Ramirez is a game changer even though he only hit 26 HRs and 101 RBIs. From 2004-06, Ramirez averaged over 30 HRs and 100 RBIs and was one of the Cubs best hitters. As for the middle infield, the Cubs have a couple of question marks'and for different reasons. Ryan Theriot enters 2008 as the Cubs starting shortstop after posting a .266/.326/.346 line in his first full season. His hustle and versatility are two things he has going in his favor, but the jury is still out on if he can be a productive everyday shortstop. For now, Mark DeRosa enters the 2008 season as the Cubs eve...

Read the full post at ArmchairGM

• ArmchairGM Phils Get Hosed by Baseball Prospectus, Arlen Specter Fights Back Feb 19
• Ball Hype Piniella says Howry has edge as Cubs' closer Feb 19
• The Sports Frog I'm Tired of Baseball Steroid Posts, So Instead: Feb 17
• AOL Fanhouse The Dugout: Dedicated to Cockfighting Feb 17
• ArmchairGM 2008 MLB Fantasy Rankings--Closers Feb 16
• The Sports Frog The Closer Role with the Cubs Feb 16
• ArmchairGM Fantasy Baseball 2008 Feb 16
• Yahoo! Sports Reds, 2B Phillips agree to 4 years, $27M (AP) Feb 15