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5 reasons the Chicago Cubs can win it all in 2015

By Josh Criswell

Aug 9, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; The Cubs celebrate their victory at Wrigley Field. The Cubs defeated the San Francisco Giants 2-0. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 9, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; The Cubs celebrate their victory at Wrigley Field. The Cubs defeated the San Francisco Giants 2-0. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jul 8, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo against the St. Louis Cardinals at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 8, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo against the St. Louis Cardinals at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Anthony Rizzo is having an MVP-caliber season

Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo is playing at an MVP level. Unfortunately for him, incredible performances from the Washington Nationals’ Bryce Harper and Arizona Diamondbacks’ Paul Goldschmidt will likely prevent him from winning the prestigious honor.

There is no doubt, however, that Rizzo has been the most valuable player on the Cubs’ roster.

He has further established himself as one of the most versatile and talented young players in baseball, hitting .296 with 23 home runs, 68 RBI and 15 stolen bases. In addition, he currently ranks among the top-5 in the National League among position players in WAR, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, runs created, extra base hits and OPS. Rizzo leads the league in Win Probability Added (WPA).

As impressive as his entire season has been, his performance during the past two weeks has been even more incredible. During this stretch, Rizzo has hit three home runs in 12 games, and has recorded a .385 batting average.

When the postseason arrives, it is crucial to have a star player to rely on. With Rizzo picking up steam heading into the final month of the regular season, he has the potential to be a dominant force come October.

Next: Deep pitching

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