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Heading into the 2016 season, the Chicago Cubs are undoubtedly one of the leading favorites in the National League. But if they’re going to survive the NL Central and go on to win the pennant, the Cubs need to stay healthy. Chicago does have impressive depth at some positions and the addition of Ben Zobrist gives them some versatility, but here are five players the Cubs need to remain healthy in 2016.
5. Kris Bryant
Credit: Getty Images5. Kris Bryant
Bryant had a sensational rookie season, and now he's someone the Cubs are counting on to produce in 2016. The drop off between Bryant and his replacement at third base would be substantial.
4. Jon Lester
Credit: Getty Images4. Jon Lester
The Cubs have plenty of offense, but they will still rely on the three standout pitchers in their rotation, notably the duo of Lester and Jake Arrieta. Losing a guy like Lester to injury will make things difficult, regardless of the Cubs' offense.
3. Jake Arrieta
Credit: Getty Images3. Jake Arrieta
If Arrieta pitches in 2016 the way he did the second half of the 2015 season, there is no way the Cubs could replace him in their rotation if he were to suffer an injury. He's Chicago's most important pitcher in 2016.
2. Anthony Rizzo
Credit: Getty Images2. Anthony Rizzo
The Cubs simply don't have anyone who can step in and play first base if Rizzo were to suffer a long-term injury. He's the team's best home run threat, and even with players like Bryant and Kyle Schwarber, his power would be hard to replace.
1. Jason Heyward
Credit: Getty Images1. Jason Heyward
After all the money spent on Heyward, the Cubs need him on the field. His bat will be an important part of their lineup, and they also need him to play a strong center field defensively, making him a player the Cubs can't afford to lose.
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