The Chicago Cubs finished in second place in 2009, but one could hardly call that a successful season. They scary thing is that they finished more games out of the wild card than they did out of their division. The National League is sporting some heavy favorites once again and if the Chicago Cubs are going into the playoffs, they have to get past St. Louis.

One of the things to be most excited about is the addition of Greg Maddux to the front office of the team. Being one of the most dominant pitchers of his time, one can only imagine the impact that he will have on this pitching staff. He was one of the best control pitchers in recent history and should be able to improve the performance of every person on that team that takes the mound.

While everyone is surely excited to have him there, imagine the young pitchers knowing that they now have Maddux to go to for advice. Even the coach has said that he wants to sit him down and talk to him! Looking back at the success that Piniella has had over the years, that is a pretty hefty compliment.

As exciting as the Maddux news is, the product that is going on the field is even more exciting. Imagine having to face the power of Soriano, Lee and Ramirez and then having to deal with the speed of Fukudome, Theriot and Byrd. It does not bode well for whoever takes the mound against the Cubs.

Pitching will also be very impressive in 2010 if Lilly returns from his surgery in good shape. Between him and Zombrano, the Cubs have a pretty powerful one and two punch. These two starters could lead the way and if the bottom half of the rotation pitches .500 ball, the wins are going to be rolling in.

The Cubs are starting the new campaign out on the road, but after two quick road trips, they head home for some games that they should win. Playing a split series against Milwaukee and then another three against Houston should allow them to gain some confidence going into their second road trip of the young season.

One thing is for sure, Cubs games are going to be exciting in 2010. The key for them always seems to be health as they have had some horrific luck in this department in past seasons. If this team stays healthy, they are going to give St. Louis a run for the division. With the strength of the East and two contenders in the West, they will need this division crown to get into the playoffs and have every right to expect to get it.

Written by Heather Maxwell, article sponsored by Stub.com. Stub.com sells Chicago Cubs Tickets, MLB Tickets, Sports Tickets and more to just about any event in your area.

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