It’s a new day and a new series. Here’s how Joe Maddon has decided to lead things off against the Pirates.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
- Javy Baez, 2B
- Jason Heyward, RF
- David Bote, 3B
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Ian Happ, LF
- Albert Almora Jr., CF
- Willson Contreras, C
- Jon Lester, P
- Addison Russell, SS
Javy Baez is leading off once again today, likely because he had a solid day at the plate after being moved to that spot yesterday (2-5, 3B). I don’t expect him to be there for long, but Maddon is definitely not going to move him as long as he’s hitting. And of course, it doesn’t hurt that Anthony Rizzo, removed from that spot for the first time in a while, did well lower in the order (2-4, BB, HR) too.
As a matter of fact, the top four tonight looks identical to the top four yesterday. And considering each member of that group had multi-hit games (9 hits total) including four extra-base hits, why change a thing?
Following Rizzo today is Ian Happ in left and Albert Almora in center. Willson Contreras continues to bat suspiciously low in the order despite hitting just fine (minus the power), and Addison Russell bats last. The offense exploded for eight runs yesterday, let’s hope they can do it again.
As usual, we’ll have more on your pitching matchups in the Pre-Gamin’ post later today.