Well, it’s pretty busy around here, eh? The Cubs traded for Daniel Murphy, the Cardinals acquired Matt Adams, and the Dodgers claimed Bryce Harper (though they probably won’t get him).
And then here’s me … with the lineup.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:Â
- Albert Almora Jr., CF
- Jason Heyward, RF
- Javy Baez, 2B
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Ben Zobrist, LF
- Kyle Schwarber, DH
- David Bote, 3B
- Willson Contreras, C
- Addison Russell, SS
With the designated hitter spot available, the Cubs have taken advantage using Kyle Schwarber. Schwarber will bat sixth and stay off the field tonight, as left is taken over by Ben Zobrist – I actually wonder how much of a defensive upgrade that really is, given Schwarber’s arm, but I digress. Elsewhere in the lineup, Albert Almora plays center and leads off, followed by Jason Heyward in right batting second.
But the big story of the lineup is the continued presence of Addison Russell. Obviously, no one expected Daniel Murphy to join the Cubs this soon, but the working theory is that Russell would ultimately head to the disabled list (hand) to make room for him. I suppose that’s still possible, but it’ll likely be received as much more of a “phantom injury” (even though we know there is probably some pain there) if he plays today and is suddenly DL-ed tomorrow (or whenever) … right as Murphy joins the team. Who knows, maybe that just doesn’t matter?
In any case, Russell is playing short and batting ninth tonight. Javy Baez – batting third, playing second – will be his double play combo up the middle and David Bote is at third. Willson Contreras and Anthony Rizzo both find themselves at their usual spots around the infield and that’s the Cubs lineup.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (6:10 CT).