Zobrist, Lackey,and Heyward: How well do you know them?

For most Cub fans, when you hear "This is the year", you most likely raise your beer and say whatever.  However, 2016 is going to be different. When you hear "This is the year," you will raise your beer... and say "Hell Yeah!" 

In 2015, there was a special feeling in and around the Friendly Confines. The anticipation for the 2016 season is unbelievable. It's going to be a hell of a season. The Cubs were given a taste of the excitement at this weekend's Cubs Convention.  I was in attendance, and it was electric as I could ever remember at a Cubs Convention.  

Why was it electric? 

It starts with the manager, but we had him in 2015.

The biggest difference between 2015 and 2016 is the additions of infielder Ben Zobrist, pitcher John Lackey, and outfielder Jason Heyward. 

Ben Zobrist was born in Eureka, Illinois and attended Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais and Dallas Baptist University in Dallas.  He was drafted by the Houston Astros in the 6th round in the 2004 draft. He made his MLB Debut for the Tampa Bay Rays (Devil Rays, at the time) He played there through the 2014 season. In 2015, he was a member of the Kansas City Royals and later won the World Series with them.  He is now a Chicago Cub and will be through the 2019 season on a $56 million dollar contract.  

John Lackey was born in Abilene, Texas and attended Grayson County College in Denison, Texas as well as the University of Texas at Arlington.He was drafted by the Anaheim Angels in the 1999 draft. Then in 2002, he made his MLB Debut as an Angel where he pitched 7 innings and took the loss against the Rangers. 

And now... Jason Heyward!

J-Hey was born in Ridgewood, New Jersey.  He grew up in Georgia.  He was drafter by the Atlanta Braves in the 2007 draft.  His MLB debut is one I can remember.  It was Opening Day 2010, the Braves were at home against the Cubs.  Carlos Zambrano pitching.  Jason Heyward went 3 for 5 in the Braves 16-5 win.  He will be a crucial part of the 2016 campaign for the Cubs.  He will be a Cub through the 2023 season.  

As I write this, spring training begins in about a month.  I, and many other Cub fans, are ecstatic to see what's in store this season.  We may be bringing home the trophy...

Personal Note:  This is my first blog post on this website.  I am thrilled to be a part of their team! I'd love to hear your feedback on my writings.  Please email questions to chicubsupdates@gmail.com and don't forget to follow me on Twitter @ChiCubsUpdates!