Cubs' Kyle Schwarber: Frontrunner to leadoff

Schwarber is the early favorite to bat leadoff for the Cubs in 2017, Patrick Mooney of CSN Chicago reports.

Analysis:

The 23-year-old missed nearly all of 2016 with a torn ACL and MCL, however, he made a miraculous comeback in the playoffs for the World Series champs, slashing .412/.500/.471 in 20 plate appearances during the postseason. Although it was a small sample size, manager Joe Maddon is apparently sold on his ability to get on base and will give him the chance to lead off next season. When Schwarber is resting, Ben Zobrist will likely step in to bat leadoff.