The Chicago Cubs are beginning a three-game set in an AL ballpark tonight, and you know what that means: DESIGNATED HITTER TIME, baby.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Ben Zobrist, 2B
- Jason Heyward, RF
- Javy Baez, 3B
- Kyle Schwarber, DH
- Willson Contreras, C
- Ian Happ, LF
- Addison Russell, SS
- Albert Almora Jr., CF
Naturally, Kyle Schwarber takes over as the designated hitter and at just the right time. He’s got 6 hits (including a double and a homer) in his last 15 plate appearances and 9 in his last 31. With the walks and extra double that’s good for a .300/.323/.467 slash line, which, while not as good as we’re used to seeing from him, is a big step up from the slump he was riding.
With Schwarber in the lineup, but not in the field, Jason Heyward, Albert Almora, and Ian Happ, take the outfield from right to left, providing some seriously quality defense along the way. Hopefully, Almora can shake off the funk he’s been in and hit for a little more power than he has been.
At the top of the order, Anthony Rizzo continues to lead off and he’s followed by Ben Zobrist. Zobrist has not slowed down yet – thank god – and he should get plenty of chances batting second tonight.
With Kris Bryant out, Ben Zobrist at second, and David Bote on the bench, Javy Baez is covering third again tonight. Meanwhile, Addison Russell, who’s also been struggling, will play short. We’ll actually have much more on Russell out in a little bit, so stay tuned for that.
As for tonight’s starter, Jakob Junis, you can note that he’s tougher on righties than lefties, but has had trouble with both throughout his career. Point being: everyone should have a chance to hit tonight. Hopefully, they take that chance and run with it. As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ closer to game time (7:15 CT).