CHICAGO -- Which version of the Chicago Cubs is the real one?
Is it the one that analytical systems pegged as the clear World Series favorite before the season? The one that raced to a 25-6 start that had fans dreaming of Tinker, Evers and Chance? Or the one that limped into the All-Star break with a 7-15 record since injured center fielder Dexter Fowler last played on June 18?
According to Theo Epstein, the most pressing matter isn't any of that. All that matters is who the Cubs are ultimately going to be. And to become who they want, everyone -- from the front office to the playing field -- has to know the work has only just begun.