Chicago Cubs Lineup: Baez Leads Off, Szczur In; Zobrist, Heyward Out
The Chicago Cubs have lost their last eight straight games against the New York Mets.
Let’s not get to nine, yes?
Chicago Cubs Lineup v. New York Mets (Steven Matz)
- Javy Baez, 2B
- Kris Bryant, 3B
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Willson Contreras, LF
- Addison Russell, SS
- Matt Szczur, RF
- Albert Almora, Jr., CF
- David Ross, C
- Jon Lester, P
Upon looking at that lineup, you should immediately recognize a distinct lack of Ben Zobrist. On any other day, that wouldn’t be all that strange, but this is the second day in a row the Cubs have played without their starting second baseman (and leadoff man in Dexter Fowler’s absence). Thankfully, Zobrist is perfectly fine according to Joe Maddon, who simply is looking to give Zobrist the breather all non-All-Stars enjoyed while he was in San Diego:
#Cubs Zobrist not in lineup for 2nd straight game but he's fine. Maddon wanted to give him a break since he was busy for All-Star events
— Carrie Muskat (@CarrieMuskat) July 18, 2016
In his place, Javy Baez sits atop the Cubs lineup, which is ideal for two reasons: 1) everyone else gets to remain in their relatively usual spot and 2) Baez has been crushing lefties this year (lefties like opposing starter Steven Matz).
David Ross is back, Jason Heyward gets the day off and Matt Szczur is rewarded for a consistently fantastic season off the bench.
We’ll have a full Pre-Gamin’ for you closer to game time.
