The Cubs have a hefty list of projected starters (both position players and pitchers) under the age of 30. Even after two frustrating seasons since coming so close in 2003, the Cubs are still a young bunch that is full of potential.

Here is a list of the youngsters (and their ages) that are expected to play major roles in the fortunes of the 2006 Chicago Cubs --

Ronny Cedeno - 23 years old Matt Murton – 24 Jerome Williams - 24 Carlos Zambrano - 24 Mark Prior - 25 Aramis Ramirez - 27 Ryan Dempster - 28 Kerry Wood - 28 Michael Barrett - 29

Derrick Lee, who is aging like a fine wine, turned 30 last September.

Felix Pie, who is widely regarded as the Cubs #1 prospect and the centerfielder of the future, is just 21 years old; however new centerfielder Juan Pierre, a proven star, is just 28. Pie will more than likely start the season at AAA Iowa and stay there until he proves he deserves his shot in the show. With the taste of Corey Patterson still lingering, odds are the Cubs will only serve the Pie when it is ready.

The Tribune Company has been a lot less afraid of opening up their wallet to help the fight in recent years. If anything, the Cubs' front office has shown that they can identify talent, and are prepared to ante up to contend. There is still a bundle of talent in the Cubs' system. If things work out, some of the names on this list could be fixtures in Chicago for a many years to come.