Acquired new manager- The Cubs went into the offseason without a manager after firing Bruce Kimm. Surprisingly the Cubs hired Dusty Baker as their manager. Dusty Baker was the Giants head coach in 2002, where he lead his team to the World Series. Dusty Baker is a great coach, and hopefully he can lead the Cubs to success.
Strenghtened the bullpen- The Cubs bullpen in 2002 was pathetic, that's why this was probably their number one concern this offeason. Luckily, they have picked up two top notch relievers this winter. Dave Veres and Mike Remlinger will be joining the Cubs for the 2002 season. Hopefully they will make a difference.
Strengthened the bench- The Cubs bench was really weak in the 2002 season, and it looks as if that's not going to be that way in 2003. They acquired Lenny Harris, Eric Karros, and Mark Grudzielanek. Troy O'Leary and Ramon Martinez are two other players that the Cubs signed this winter that might help the Cubs bench.
These three upgrades for the Chicago Cubs, might make them a contender for 2003, and if so, all the Cubs fans can quit saying the well known quote "There's always next year!"