Relievers Of Yesteryear And Visions Of Playoffs: The 2013 Cubs Convention
By Rob Winn in News on Jan 16, 2013 9:40PM
A few news items are trickling out of Cubbie land ahead of the 2013 Cubs Convention, which kicks off Friday. Ever so slightly, hope is starting to build as Cubs president Theo Epstein and manager Dale Sveum spoke about the upcoming season. Both expressed their belief that the Cubs can make the playoffs in 2013.
"It's postseason or bust every year. That's what our goal is. That said, we're obviously building for something greater, which is a time when we can expect to get into the postseason every year," Epstein said.
He went on, "There are stories every year about teams that don't necessarily look like the favorites on paper that find their way playing meaningful games in September, playing into October, playing into deep October. Baltimore, Oakland last year, they are great inspirations for teams in our position."
Uh, ok. The Cubs have added pitching, but they will still field a team that lacks quality talent. And don't forget Theo had similar things to say before the start of last season, which saw them lose 101 games and completely gut the roster at the trade deadline. Towards the end of the season the Cubs were fielding a team that would've had trouble winning against quality Triple-A ball clubs.
Epstein also hinted that there would be an announcement on Wrigley renovations coming this weekend. Expect a corporate sponsor or two will be involved with that, as the relationship between Rham Emanuel and the Ricketts family is still icy.
Here is the full list of attendees for the convention. The usual suspects will be in attendance, from Tom Ricketts and Theo Epstein to former players like Kerry Wood and Ernie Banks. Please remember to direct all big government questions towards Pete Ricketts and for those looking for a Jeff Fassero autograph, get in line early. Surely that will be a hot commodity.