NEWSLETTER
The Cubs have now won three straight games at Citi Field and stand in position to move ten games over .500 with a sweep of the Mets later this afternoon.
Here’s how they’ll look.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
- Albert Almora Jr., CF
- Jason Heyward, RF
- Javy Baez, 3B
- Willson Contreras, C
- Ian Happ, 1B
- Kyle Schwarber, LF
- Addison Russell, SS
- Tommy La Stella, 2B
- Jon Lester, P
After a 14-inning marathon last night, Joe Maddon is giving side-by-side days of rest to Anthony Rizzo and Kris Bryant (it’s rare not to have at least one of those two in the heart of the Cubs batting order, isn’t it?). With an off-day tomorrow, though, it’s very expected – Maddon loves giving guys a day off before an off-day, to get the most out of the rest.
In Rizzo’s place at first you’ll find Ian Happ. And at third, Javy Baez. Meanwhile, having vacated second, Baez is replaced by Tommy La Stella, as Ben Zobrist gets some rest in too. Although I love Bryzzobrist as much as the next guy, this is a pretty fun lineup.
Elsewhere, Jason Heyward will look to continue his torrid stretch (12 hits in his past five games), but he’ll do so as a lefty against a guy who’s been very tough on lefties this season:
Versus Righties: .334 wOBA
Versus Lefties:Â .298 wOBA
The splits are much more narrow for his career, but righties have always had the advantage. It’s worth pointing out that Heyward has struggled MIGHTILY against left-handers this season (.180 wOBA), though that was just 37 plate appearances. And, hey, who knows. Maybe being locked in means you’re locked in.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ closer to game time (12:10 CT).
