Chicago Cubs Are Ready For 2019 Season

The Cubs started last season with such promise. Unfortunately, as every Cubs fan knows, that promise was reduced to an IOU in the later part of the season. After being favored to win at least the NL pennant, who thought the team would end up losing to the Colorado Rockies in the National League wild card series. However, it's a new year and a new season, and Cubs fans have plenty of reasons to be enthusiastic as MLB's opening day approaches.

Six reasons to be excited about the coming Cubs season

1.The Chicago Cubs ranking is currently No. 1 in the NL central division

Yes, there are many things that can change when the Cubs return to Wrigleyville from Arizona, but the team has been playing extremely well during spring training. Vegas seems to think so. They've picked the Cubs as the favorite to win the NL Central division and give the team 12-1 odds of winning the World Series.

2. Yu Darvish is healthy.

After a year of injury and inconsistency, pitcher Yu Darvish is reported to be in top shape and could be that something extra the Cubs need to win their division and take the team to the playoffs this year. It will be interesting to see if the Cubs get the return they've been expecting on the $126 million they invested by acquiring him last year.

3.The Cubs have one of the most complete and deepest rosters in baseball

. The Cubs have worked for several years on creating depth in their line-up and their efforts will likely pay off in the 2019 season.

4. The starting rotation is one of the best in recent history.

Darvish isn't the only positive in the Cubs pitching line-up this year. The starting rotation is one of the strongest we've seen in the last several years. In addition to Darvish, the line-up includes a healthy Kris Bryant, Jon Lester, Jose Quintana, Cole Hamels and Kyle Hendricks. Some are calling this the best rotation in all of baseball this year.

5.There's money available.

Next year, the Cubs are switching to their own network, a move that will help them capitalize on the lucrative TV ad revenue on MLB games. In anticipation of this, there should be ample funds available to be able to snatch up the right trades during the season, reversing a trend that has been an habitual problem for the Cubs. You may not agree with it, but money can buy wins. Just ask the Yankees.

6.The younger players are getting the experience they need.

You could argue that one of the reasons the Cubs fell short of their expectations last year was the lack of maturity and experience in some of their younger players. However, Albert Almora Jr., Ian Happ and Kyle Schwarber are looking good in Cubs spring training and may have just acquired the poise they need to be ready for a championship season. Young players on the cusp of greatness can make for some very exciting play.

To make sure that you have all of the Chicago Cubs gear you need for that first pitch of the season, visit Sports World Chicago for a full line of licensed Cubs apparel and accessories. Here's to a winning 2019 season!