With Addison Russell missing another game due to his bum shoulder, and with Jason Heyward still on the DL, Joe Maddon has to get creative.
Here’s the Cubs lineup:
- Kyle Schwarber, LF
- Kris Bryant, RF
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Ben Zobrist, 2B
- Jeimer Candelario, 3B
- Willson Contreras, C
- Javy Baez, SS
- Eddie Butler, P
- Albert Almora, CF
Not having Russell available is a bummer tonight, as it forces Baez over to shortstop, which puts Zobrist at second, which opens an outfield spot for Bryant, which leads to Candelario starting at third. There are things in that chain that are good and that I like! But they also lead to a downgraded defense in the infield, where Butler is going to need the most help if he’s doing what he is supposed to do (getting lots of grounders). Here’s hoping Baez and Zobrist work well together at second on a couple double plays, and Candelario shows off his glove at third (which some rate as solid, and other rate as below average – show the good side, Candy).
Offensively, just about every Cubs batter could use a good game to get off the schneid, but opposing starter Mike Leake is pitching as well as he has in his career, generating a lot of soft contact and limiting hard contact. He also never walks anyone, so when you have to do your own damage, he makes it very challenging and frustrating.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ closer to game time (7:15 CT). In the meantime, read about Anthony Rizzo’s recent deep slump, and how typical – or atypical – it is for him in recent years.