Chicago Cubs Tickets

The Chicago Cubs were the class of the National League, but yet again it didn't translate into postseason success.

In fact, the Cubs were briskly ushered out of the playoffs by the upstart Los Angeles Dodgers, leaving their fans to ponder what it will take to bring a World Series to the Windy City.

Chicago lost closer Kerry Wood to the Cleveland Indians, so setup man Carlos Marmol will get a shot at finishing off games. Some felt Marmol was actually better suited for the role than Wood. I guess we will find out for sure this year.

Marmol will have plenty of help in the bullpen. The Cubs acquired Aaron Heilman from the New York Mets, although he wants to be a starter and could get his wish at the back end of the rotation.

The Cubs also saw a lot of promise in former Notre Dame star wideout Jeff Samardija. He could end up in a setup role of even as closer if Marmol falters.

The team did make one major offensive addition, signing outfielder Milton Bradley to a three-year contract. Bradley was one of the top offensive players in the American League last year when he was able to stay on the field.

There are concerns surrounding Bradley, most notably his inability to stay healthy. The Texas Rangers could rest him as the designated hitter a lot, but the Cubs won't have that luxury.

It's also worth noting that Bradley has an explosive temper and isn't the best teammate, so he could cause chemistry issues inside Chicago's clubhouse.

The Cubs boast the strongest starting rotation in the division with Carlos Zambrano and Rich Harden forming a tough 1-2 punch. However, both pitchers are prone to injuries, especially Harden.

Ryan Dempster had a breakout 2008 season and will find it hard to equal those same numbers this year. Nonetheless, he is more than solid as a No. 3 starter. Ted Lilly is a strong No. 4 candidate, while Sean Marshall pitched well in limited time in 2008 and will likely round out the rotation.

The Cubs should once again be the class of the Central Division, but will need to watch out for the St. Louis Cardinals and Milwaukee Brewers in their fight to get back into the postseason and have another shot at bringing home a World Series title.