Chicago Cubs

The Cubs opened the season tabbed by many to successfully defend their World Series title. SportsBookReview installed the Cubs as the favorites, followed by the Boston Red Sox, Cleveland Indians and Los Angeles Dodgers.

Manager Joe Maddon is confident his team will meet the challenge of becoming the first team to repeat since the New York Yankees won three World Series in a row from 1998 to 2000.

“I think our guys are ready to turn the page and move on to this year,” Maddon said. “We’d like to do it again. That’s not saying we’re going to kill it or somebody’s not going to beat us. That’s not my point. I just think we’re going to go into it with the right mind-set.” Infielder Tommy La Stella and outfielder Matt Szczur made the opening-day roster. They originally were competing for one spot but benefited from the Cubs opting to go with a 12man pitching staff rather than 13.

The 12-man staff might not last for long. Left-hander Brian

Duensing (back spasms) began the season on the 10-day disabled list but is expected to be activated April 9, the first day he is eligible.