The Cubs are going for the sweep this afternoon, but with a few regulars out of commission, the lineup is creative. Take a look.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
- Ian Happ, 3B
- Jason Heyward, CF
- Ben Zobrist, RF
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Javy Baez, 2B
- Kyle Schwarber, LF
- Willson Contreras, C
- Addison Russell, SS
- Jon Lester, P
Perhaps five years ago, your obvious solution to Kris Bryant and Albert Almora both sitting on the same day would’ve been to stick Ben Zobrist at third base and keep Ian Happ in the outfield, but Joe Maddon is switching things up (possibly because Zobrist is probably a little more comfortable out in right than at the hot corner).
So with the vet in right, Jason Heyward moves over to center to cover for Almora, while Ian Happ takes over third base for Bryant. It’s a lot of moving parts, but nothing we haven’t seen before.
Opposite Happ is Anthony Rizzo at first base, batting cleanup, while the one and only Javier Baez remains at second base. Following Baez is … Kyle Schwarber, Willson Contreras, and Addison Russell!? When those three guys are your sixth, seventh, and eighth hitters on a day when Bryant and Almora are both out, you know you’ve got yourself one hell of a roster.
We’ll talk about today’s opposing starter, Lance Lynn, a little more later on in the Pre-Gamin’, but for now know that lefties have crushed him all season long and he’ll face four-straight to start the game and six of nine overall. Nice.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ closer to game time (1:20).
Also … it feels good to be back! – Michael.