Maddon: Fundamentals key to fending off rivals

CHICAGO -- As August heats up, Cubs manager Joe Maddon doesn't foresee the hotly contested race for first place in the National League Central abating any time soon.

As his team clings to a slim lead over the Brewers, Maddon anticipates the competition sticking around for the long term. So from Maddon's perspective, that keeps the onus on the Cubs to do what they need to do over the final two months of the season.

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Chicago has remained atop the division behind second baseman Javier Baez, who has established himself as a bona fide NL Most Valuable Player Award candidate, and first baseman Anthony Rizzo, who has flourished since moving into the leadoff spot. But as the…