The Chicago Cubs have roared out to an 8-1 start in the second half of the season, while the White Sox have limped out to 0-8.
Here’s to trends continuing:
- Jason Heyward, RF
- Kris Bryant, 3B
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Willson Contreras, C
- Kyle Schwarber, LF
- Ben Zobrist, 2B
- Jon Jay, CF
- Javy Baez, SS
- Kyle Hendricks, P
If you remember back to just before the 2016 season (and before Dexter Fowler’s surprise return to the Cubs), you’ll recall that Jason Heyward was among the oft-discussed options at leadoff. Of course, since then, Fowler returned and reclaimed the leadoff spot, while Heyward’s offensive production went into a deep, cold slumber.
But now, Fowler is on the Cardinals and Jason Heyward is slashing .364/.400/.636 since the All-Star Break. In other words, he’s knocked two doubles, two triples, and a home run in just 35 plate appearances, while striking out just 8.6% of the time. He’s also stolen a base. He’s on fire, and, for now, he’s the Cubs leadoff man.
Any questions?
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin closer to Game Time (1:20 CT) – the Series Preview will also be out shortly (get off my back about it, okay?).