First Base - Derrek Lee

Derrek Lee will once again be the Cubs starting first baseman in 2010.  One of the premier first basemen in the league, Lee is a definite force in the Cubs lineup and a mature presence in the clubhouse. 

In 2005, Lee had the best statistical season of his career, batting .335 and slugging 46 homers.  However, in 2006, Lee suffered a broken wrist that sidelined him for most of the 2006 season.  Upon his return in 2007, his power numbers dropped significantly.  His power returned somewhat in 2008 but were still off from his pre-injury numbers.

Last year, Derrek Lee seemed to return to form.  The three time gold glove first baseman hit .306 with 36 doubles, 2 triples, 35 homeruns and 111 RBIs.  The two time All Star walked 76 times and struck out 109 times. 

Had Aramis Ramirez been healthy, and had Soto and Alfonso Soriano hit to form, the Cubs would likely have made the postseason with a season like last year's from Derrek Lee.  Hopefully, Lee will get some help this year from the rest of the offiense which should lead the Cubs much closer to their goal of winning another World Series.