The Cubs basically played their second *and* third games of the season yesterday (it took 17 innings in Miami!), but here’s their lineup for Game 3.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
- Ian Happ, CF
- Kris Bryant, 3B
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Willson Contreras, C
- Kyle Schwarber, LF
- Addison Russell, SS
- Ben Zobrist, 2B
- Jason Heyward, RF
- Yu Darvish, P
Happy Darvish Day! Now, let’s get the guy some runs.
Ben Zobrist played three different defensive positions (right field, left field, and second base) and collected three hits. And since Javier Baez has started 0-for-the-season in the first two games, it’s only right he gets a breather and a day off in order to clear his head and get back into a good place.
Zobrist’s first start at second base moves Jason Heyward down to the eighth spot in the order, while Ian Happ returns to his spot atop the order and in center field.
MLB.com lists Odrisamer Despaigne as tonight’s starter, even after picking up an inning of work (and the win!) in Friday’s marathon game. He threw just 11 pitches, so it’s not like he was worked hard last night. And for what it’s worth, Zobrist (2-for-3, 3B, RBI) and Heyward (2-for-4, 2B, 3B, 2 BB, RBI) are the only two Cubs with multiple hits off Despaigne in his career. It’s an admittedly small sample (active Cubs have just 27 PA against Despaigne) we’re pulling from in this instance.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ closer to game time (6:10 CT).