NEWSLETTER
Yesterday, the Chicago Cubs scored more runs against the New York Mets in one game (14) than they have in the last five games combined (13).
And it was obviously because Anthony Rizzo led off … so here we are again:
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Ian Happ, 2B
- Kris Bryant, 3B
- Miguel Montero, C
- Jon Jay, RF
- Kyle Schwarber, LF
- Javy Baez, SS
- Mike Montgomery, P
- Albert Almora Jr., CF
For the second straight day, the Cubs’ top three run Rizzo, Happ, Bryant. And considering that they went 5-12 with four walks, a double, and three homers yesterday, I don’t think anyone’s complaining. Beyond that, however, things get weird once again.
Jason Heyward, yesterday’s cleanup hitter, gets the night off. He’s replaced in the field by Jon Jay and in the lineup by Miguel Montero. Kyle Schwarber follows and plays left as usual. The opposing starter, Matt Harvey, has been slightly better against righties, so it’s good to see Montero, Jay, and Schwarber all in, but I would have also liked to see Heyward start again. Oh well – you can’t play every night, I suppose.
Addison Russell is also rotating out in favor of Javy Baez, as he has been according to plan. And hopefully, Baez is able to remain patient hitting in front of the pitcher.
Finally, Albert Almora plays center and bats ninth like he has many times this season, and that’s your Cubs lineup for today. I’m not sure how long this Rizzo experiment will last, but I’m certainly enjoying it for now. You should too! Who knows, maybe this’ll be a thing.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ closer to game time (6:10 CT).
