The chill in the winter weather has dissipated over the last couple days reminding us that spring training, my favorite time of year, is under a month away. The promise of baseball, the optimism of a new season, and the energy of fans who can’t wait to see their team in action make this time special. It’s a chance to forget last year’s disappointments and dream of what’s to come. And what better way to kick off the countdown to spring training than with the Cubs Convention this weekend?
This year’s convention feels particularly exciting with some big names headlining the event. Kyle Tucker, fresh off avoiding arbitration on Thursday, will be in attendance. Tucker’s presence as a Cub still feels surreal, and fans are eager to hear from him about his offseason preparation and thoughts on joining the team. His combination of power and speed, along with his Gold Glove-caliber defense, makes him a key piece in the Cubs’ quest for contention.
Another player generating buzz is Gage Workman, whom the Cubs selected in the Rule 5 draft back in December. Workman’s versatility in the infield and potential at the plate have many fans curious about how he’ll fit into the team’s plans. The Rule 5 draft always brings some intrigue, but the Cubs seem to have found a gem in Workman. Getting a closer look at him during the convention will be a treat for fans who are already speculating about his role this season.
While the current roster brings plenty of excitement, the convention wouldn’t be complete without celebrating the legends of the past. This year, Geovany Soto, Aramis Ramirez, and Derrek Lee are among the attendees, and their presence is sure to spark some nostalgia. Soto, the 2008 NL Rookie of the Year, was a fan favorite during his time in Chicago. His knack for handling pitchers and delivering clutch hits made him a standout during an era when the Cubs were perennial contenders.
Aramis Ramirez being in attendance is equally thrilling. Known for his smooth swing and clutch performances, Ramirez was a cornerstone of the Cubs’ lineup for nearly a decade. His ability to drive in runs and come through in pressure situations made him one of the most dependable players in recent Cubs history. Hearing Ramirez reflect on his career and share his perspective on today’s game will undoubtedly be a highlight of the convention.
And then there’s Derrek Lee, the consummate professional and one of the best first basemen the Cubs have ever had. Lee’s incredible 2005 season, where he flirted with a Triple Crown and won a Gold Glove, remains one of the greatest individual performances by a first baseman in franchise history. His leadership and steady presence on and off the field earned him respect from teammates and fans alike. The opportunity to celebrate his legacy and relive some of his most memorable moments is something every Cubs fan can appreciate.
Of course, no discussion of Cubs history would be complete without mentioning the return of Sammy Sosa. For years, the relationship between Sosa and the Cubs organization has been complicated, but seeing him back at the convention is a significant step toward reconciliation. Sosa’s impact on the franchise is undeniable. His home run chases captivated the baseball world and brought a new level of energy to Wrigley Field. While his career has its share of controversies, there’s no denying the joy he brought to Cubs fans during his prime.
Sosa’s return is more than just a trip down memory lane; it’s an opportunity for healing and for fans to celebrate a player who meant so much to the team’s identity. Hearing from Sosa directly about his time with the Cubs and his thoughts on the game today promises to be a powerful moment for everyone in attendance.
Here’s the thing folks: this blend of past and present is what makes the Cubs Convention so special. It’s not just a chance to look forward to the upcoming season but also an opportunity to reflect on the moments and players that have shaped the team’s history. For fans, it’s a reminder of why they fell in love with the Cubs in the first place.
With that… We inch closer to spring training, the anticipation is building. Seeing the excitement at the convention, hearing from players like Kyle Tucker and Gage Workman, and celebrating the legacies of Geovany Soto, Aramis Ramirez, Derrek Lee, and Sammy Sosa is the perfect way to bridge the gap between the offseason and the start of the season. Baseball is almost back, and for Cubs fans, the journey begins this weekend.
If you cannot play with them, then root for them!