Cubs Lineup: Jorge Soler Is In and Batting Second, Javy Baez Starts at Third Base

As the Chicago Cubs sort out what they’re going to do in the outfield vis a vis their various injuries (the guess increasingly appears to be a DL stint for Matt Szczur and a call-up for Ryan Kalish), the answer for tonight is a bookend of Kris Bryant and Jorge Soler in the outfield:

1. Dexter Fowler, CF
2. Jorge Soler, LF
3. Kris Bryant, RF
4. Anthony Rizzo, 1B
5. Ben Zobrist, 2B
6. Javy Baez, 3B
7. Addison Russell, SS
8. Tim Federowicz, C
9. Jake Arrieta, P

Jorge Soler hasn’t had too many starting opportunities in recent weeks, even after the loss of Kyle Schwarber and the various bumps and bruises around the outfield. It’s easy to say that he hasn’t run with the opportunities he’s gotten, and, thus, hasn’t earned regular playing time, but as a young player who simply needs more experience, it’s a bit hard – in my opinion – to ding him for not breaking out. Perhaps a move up to the two-hole will help spur something, and get him some more looks in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, Javy Baez starts at third base, pushing Kris Bryant into right field to cover for the still-sitting Jason Heyward (wrist). It’s great to see Baez in there, given all that he can do to change the game defensively, on the bases, and at the plate. Baez is hitting .355/.394/.516 so far this year, and, although the .476 BABIP is going to come way down, you’ll be pleased to know that his walk rate (6.1%) and his strikeout rate (27.3%) are not crazy out of whack so far.

Kris Bryant hasn’t played right field yet this year, but he’s certainly capable. Still, that outfield defense, on the balance, looks awfully rough today. Here’s hoping Jake Arrieta can keep the ball down, or, well, just strike everyone out.

A full Pre-Gamin’ will come closer to game time.