It is hard to repeat, very hard. Even with the Chicago Cubs being the preseason favorite, the cards are stacked against them. Teams that do repeat get more production from their roster. Be it a huge increase from current stars (see Derek Jeter in 1998 verse Derek Jeter in 1999). Or a rising star begins to fulfill his potential.
For the Cubs to repeat in 2017, they need more production from others on their roster. Without major free agency additions, and really only a swap of closers, the bump needs to come from their now veteran roster.
Here are the guys the Cubs can expect a huge season from, helping to win back-to-back titles.
Addison Russell
I have said it before, Addison is due to find his offensive groove. He has shown that with a more aggressive approach, and attempting to pull more balls, he is a huge force in the lineup. What impresses me more is his ability to recognize how pitchers are battling him, and making the proper adjustments quickly to combat that.
Russell is a lot more than a great glove, and we saw sparks of this in 2016. With Russel proving to be the most dangerous Cubs hitter in clutch moments, hitting .333/.391/.538 in high leverage situations.
With everything coming together, and the confidence Addy brings to the park daily, he will certainly be a huge reason for a Cubs repeat.
