It’s the all-important rubber game between the Cubs and Astros. The Astros’ lineup is slightly more reminiscent of an actual, big league lineup with Jose Altuve (.341 OBP) and Jed Lowrie (.343) back at the top. The Cubs’ lineup is topped by Joe Mather (.255) and Darwin Barney (.300). So. Yeah.
Dave Sappelt’s boner last night didn’t get him benched, and Anthony Recker fills in for Anthony Rizzo at first base tonight (being named Anthony is a requisite to starting at first).
Game Info
Chicago Cubs (55-87) at Houston Astros (45-97), 7:05 CT on CSN+.
Game Thread and Series Preview
The Game Thread lives here. You should participate in the madness. And, of course, for those who aren’t into message board-style game threads, please feel free to use the comments on this post for your in-game commentary/outbursts.
The Series Preview for this series lives here.
Starting Pitchers
Travis Wood (5-11, 4.42 ERA, 5.17 FIP)
versus
Fernando Abad (0-3, 5.30 ERA, 5.06 FIP)
Houston Astros Lineup
1. Jose Altuve, 2B
2. Jed Lowrie, SS
3. J.D. Martinez, LF
4. Justin Maxwell, CF
5. Matt Dominguez, 3B
6. Brandon Laird, 1B
7. Chris Snyder, C
8. Brandon Barnes, RF
9. Fernando Abad, P
Chicago Cubs Lineup
1. Joe Mather, CF
2. Darwin Barney, 2B
3. Starlin Castro, SS
4. Alfonso Soriano, LF
5. Welington Castillo, C
6. Josh Vitters, 3B
7. Dave Sappelt, RF
8. Anthony Recker, 1B
9. Travis Wood, P