I’m not sure the Cubs can make this series any more exciting than it has been, but here’s the lineup that’ll try later this afternoon.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:Â
- Murphy, 2B
- El Mago, SS
- Tony, 1B
- Zorilla, RF
- J-Hey, CF
- Willy the Beast, C
- Schwarbs, LF
- Lelo, P
- Happer, 3B
Before we get into anything else, I want to point out that Jason Heyward is not only back in the lineup, he’s out in center field. That’s very good news, considering he missed the first two games of this series with a sore ankle. Given the state of the outfield offense at the moment, we were hoping he wasn’t out long, and for once that wish came true. So, Jason Heyward: glad to have you back.
And I’m especially glad to have him back against Luis Castillo today, because of this:
Luis Castillo ’18 Splits:
Verus Righties: .217/.266/.369 (.275 wOBA)
Versus Lefties:Â .294/.361/.534 (.378 wOBA)
Those are some massive splits, and should provide Jason Heyward with a warm return into the deep end. It should else help left-handed leadoff man Daniel Murphy, who has begun his Cubs career with three consecutive multi-hit games, including a homer. It really has gone about as good as it could have for him so far.
Speaking of which, Javier Baez’s multi-hit streak ended yesterday, but his hitting streak continued. He’s up to five games now, featuring 10 hits, 2 doubles, 2 homers, 6 RBI, and a stolen base.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ closer to game time (1:20 CT).