Cubs believe Fowler’s return key to success

CINCINNATI — The key moment in the Cubs’ season may have happened before the first regular-season game was played, when Dexter Fowler surprised everyone with his return.

“No doubt,” Chicago’s Anthony Rizzo said of Fowler’s comeback. “He just lengthens the lineup.”

In his first season with Chicago in 2015, Fowler provided the spark at the top, batting .272 in the second half. Without him in 2016, the Cubs were projecting Jason Heyward in center and leading off.

“Having him back simplified everything, and there was that much more depth,” Heyward said. “Who knows? With the injuries we had, we would’ve been looking for outfielders at the Trade Deadline. [Fowler] gave us that cushion.”

Fowler decided to accept a one-year contract from the Cubs, but he didn’t tell any of his teamamates. There were rumors he had agreed to a three-year deal with the Orioles, and Rizzo even sent a text to congratulate the outfielder. But Fowler didn’t return the message and instead showed up during a Spring Training practice in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 25 and was greeted by hugs and cheers from his teammates.

“Bringing him, it boosted our morale for sure — not that we weren’t ready — but he’s such a good personality,” Rizzo said Saturday. “You don’t want to blame it on one person, but when he was hurt, we went into a little skid. It’s good to have him.”

Cubs …

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