Cubs
MLB National League Central Chicago Cubs 2022
In 2021, the Cubs struggled to the tune of a 71-91 record, good for fourth and 24 games back in the NL Central. Their struggles led to a massive selloff at the trade deadline.
Despite their rough season, the Cubs do not seem intent on rebuilding. On the contrary, they were relatively active prior to the MLB lockout.
In fact, they claimed Wade Miley off waivers from the rival Cincinnati Reds. They also added Marcus Stroman on a three-year deal.
Additionally, they signed catcher Yan Gomes, outfielder Clint Frazier, and outfielder Michael Hermosillo to deals. It would also not be surprising to see the Cubs active prior to the start of the 2022 season. Some, in fact, have speculated that the addition of Gomes could lead to a deal involving Willson Contreras.
The Cubs also have some legitimate talent down on the farm. Their top-five prospects, according to MLB.com, include Brennen Davis (outfielder), Brailyn Marquez (pitcher), Christian Hernandez (shortstop), Miguel Amaya (catcher), and Pete Crow-Armstrong (outfielder).
With no clear-cut dominant team in the NL Central, don’t be surprised if the Cubs try to compete for a division title this season. While their roster may not be quite to the level of the Brewers and the Cardinals, there is definitely talent abound.
For that reason, their selloff last season feels a lot more like retooling as opposed to rebuilding.
MLB National League Central Chicago Cubs History
Originally known as the Chicago White Stockings, the Chicago Cubs’ franchise is one of the oldest in baseball as it was a founding member of the National League in 1876.
From 1890 to 1897, the franchise became known as the Chicago Colts before being known as the Chicago Orphans from 1898 to 1902.
Finally, in 1903, the season of the first modern World Series, the franchise changed its name to the Chicago Cubs, which it has been ever since.
When divisions were formed in 1969, the Cubs were originally part of the NL East. They played in that division from 1969 until 1993. With realignment and the addition of another division in 1994, the Cubs shifted to the NL Central. They have been in that division ever since.
As one of two teams located in Chicago, the Cubs are often referred to as the North Siders, while the White Sox are called the SouthSiders. This is mostly because the Cubs’ ballpark, Wrigley Field, is located on the north side of Chicago, close to Lake Michigan.
Going back to 1876, the team has played in seven ballparks total. Their first was 23rd Street Grounds, which they played in from 1876 to 1877. They have played at Wrigley Field since 1916.
Going back to their earliest season, the franchise has a winning record to date at 11,087 – 10,521, good for a .513 winning percentage.
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