The Kane County Cougars are no longer the Cubs affiliate in the Midwest League, but they'll still have a significant Cubs association in 2015 as a former Cub has been named their manager.
Mark Grudzielanek, who played second base for the Cubs in 2003 and 2004 and had a good season for the 2003 N.L. Central champs (.314/.366/.416, 2.3 bWAR), was today named the 16th manager in Cougars history. It's the first coaching/managing job for the former Cub, who also played for the Expos, Dodgers, Cardinals, Royals, Twins and Indians.
The Cougars, who set a franchise record for regular-season wins (90) and won the Midwest League championship while a Cubs affiliate in 2014, will be affiliated with the Arizona Diamondbacks this season.
While this isn't specifically Cubs news, many of us have fond memories of the 2003 division title team (well, at least until a certain October date at Wrigley Field). Grudzielanek was a big part of that team and I wish him well in his new position.