This. This is the lineup that’ll finally net the Cubs a win.
Right?
Chicago Cubs Lineup vs. Pittsburgh Pirates (Chad Kuhl):
- Tommy La Stella, 2B
- Kris Bryant, LF
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Ben Zobrist, RF
- Willson Contreras, C
- Jason Heyward, CF
- Addison Russell, SS
- Javy Baez, 3B
- Jon Lester, P
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Willson Contreras gets a chance to catch Jon Lester, and hopefully the duo work well together. Could be many starts for them together in the long-term future.
Of modest note, Tommy La Stella plays second base tonight, with Javy Baez playing third (those two had been flipped in other recent starts featuring both players). My assumption is that, with a lefty on the mound in Jon Lester, Joe Maddon wants maximum defense to the pull side for righties.
In theory, that’s a solid lineup. Look at the players individually, think about their past performance and potential. That’s a lineup of eight straight above-average-potential hitters. They’ve gotta score some runs tonight, right? Without necessarily needing homers? With runners in scoring position? Yes, I am feeling desperate.
Partly because I want to donate:
I'm so eager for Cubs to win, & for MAW fundraiser to hit its goal, I'm gonna donate $50 if Cubs win tonight: https://t.co/jeaEwFx7Wg
— Brett Taylor (@BleacherNation) July 9, 2016
We’ll have a full Pre-Gamin’ closer to game time.