It has been another eventful year for the Chicago Cubs. Although the team finished in the basement of the National League Central, there was never a dull moment on Chicago's North Side. With the calender year coming to a close, it is time to review the top ten Cubs news stories of 2011!
10. Rebuilding Phase?
The biggest story during the final few weeks of 2011 has been the idea that the Cubs are entering a major rebuilding phase. David Kaplan was the first to report that the Cubs are going to tear the team down and start over in 2012, dumping as many valuable pieces as possible in order to get prospects in return and to save money. The first in what could be a flurry of trades was sending Sean Marshall to the Reds for Travis Wood and two other young players.
9. Cubs Acquire Garza
On Jan. 7 the Cubs made a surprising trade, acquiring Matt Garza from the Rays in exchange for a package of five prospects, including Chris Archer and Hak-Ju Lee. Nearly a full year later, the Cubs new front office team is listening to offers for the young right hander, who was the most productive pitcher on the Cubs last season.
8. Castro an All-Star
The Cubs young shortstop had a breakout season, earning himself an appearance in the All-Star Game. Starlin Castro became the youngest player in Cubs history to play in the Mid-Summer Classic. At the plate Castro emerged, hitting .307, but his defense needs some work. His 29 errors led the league among shortstops.
7. Sveum Named Cubs Manager
On Nov. 16 the Cubs announced that Dale Sveum would take over as Cubs manager, replacing Mike Quade, who lasted just one season. This hire was one of the quietest ones in recent years by the Cubs, who typically go after big names like Don Baylor, Dusty Baker and Lou Piniella. However, Sveum's style could be a good fit for this rebuilding club.
6. Ramirez Signs with Brewers
One of the mainstays on the North Side of Chicago departed via free agency by signing with the division rival Milwaukee Brewers. It will be difficult for Cubs fans to see Rami play for the Crew, despite that fact that many of them complained that he was overpaid during his final few seasons on the North Side. Ramirez was a contributer to the Cubs '03 playoff run, an RBI machine in 2007 and a key piece in '08. Aramis's absence in the middle of the Cubs order will be felt this season. He was one of the Cubs few power threats in 2011.
Up next, we'll round out our top ten with the top five Cubs news stories of 2011! Be sure to check to back for that post!
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