Cubs Matchup Against Dodgers Could Be Preview of What’s Ahead

The Chicago Cubs look destined for a playoff run this season, even after losing to Dodgers.

Author:
Andy Jasner
Publish date:
Apr 24, 2023 10:38 AM EDT

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Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs looked like a playoff team on paper before the season began.

It was easy to see why considering the major roster upgrades.

The Cubs recently played two hard-fought series against the Los Dodgers and more than held their own. In the most recent series, the Cubs dropped three of four at Wrigley Field.

But the Cubs still came away with positive vibes.

"It felt like playoff baseball," Cubs manager David Ross said. "I feel like we're right there with a really good team. We're a good team. They're a good team. And we had some really hard-fought battles."

While the Cubs lost 7-3 in the series finale on Sunday, they can take solace in the fact they look destined for a postseason run.

"We see where we stack up against them," Cubs starter Marcus Stroman told reporters. "We don't feel like we're way behind them."

The Cubs, who went 5-5 each against the Dodgers and Seattle Mariners, have a difficult schedule looming with three games against the San Diego Padres.

Chicago will find out quickly about its ability to compete and win games during a tough marathon 162-game regular season.

They say they’re ready.

"We're going to obviously have ups and downs throughout the year," Stroman said. "That's normal over a 162-game schedule. But I'm excited to ride out with the guys we have in the clubhouse, because I think we're going to continue to get better and better each and every day."

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