NEWSLETTER
The Chicago Cubs are currently riding a three-game winning streak, and are just a half game out of first place in the National League Central. Hooray!
Here is the group that will try to keep the good times rolling with a fourth straight win, which would clinch a series sweep of the San Diego Padres at Wrigley Field (REVENGE!):
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Kris Bryant, RF
- Kyle Schwarber, LF
- Addison Russell, SS
- Ian Happ, 2B
- Tommy La Stella, 3B
- Willson Contreras, C
- Eddie Butler, P
- Albert Almora Jr., CF
The Cubs are still nursing some injuries, with Jason Heyward still out of action and Ben Zobrist on the disabled list, so there is reason behind the movement up and down Joe Maddon’s order, as well as among the defensive positioning.
In fact, the Cubs are throwing out a completely different defensive trio from left to right with Schwarber’s return, Bryant’s shift from third, and the insertion of Almora. Bryant, Happ, and Contreras will start at different positions than they did during Tuesday’s win. Russell, Happ, and Contreras will bat in different spots in the order.
Wednesday will also mark La Stella’s third start since returning from Triple-A Iowa, and he will be looking to get out of an 0-for-6 hitless stretch. And we’ll see if Almora can use last night’s pinch-hit RBI double as a springboard against Padres starter Miguel Diaz, who has a 7.36 ERA and 6.53 FIP in 29.1 innings over 23 appearances – including two starts.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ closer to gametime (1:20 CT).
