The Cubs may have lost last night, but today is a good day, because the 2016 NL MVP is BACK.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
- Daniel Murphy, 2B
- Javy Baez, SS
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Ben Zobrist, RF
- Kris Bryant, 3B
- Kyle Schwarber, LF
- Victor Caratini, C
- Kyle Hendricks, P
- Ian Happ, CF
There are plenty of interesting lineup decisions today, but the return of Kris Bryant is, without a doubt, the most important. Bryant hasn’t swung a bat in the big leagues since July 23rd, but I have a feeling he’ll be ready to go as soon as he gets back tonight. And remember, keep an eye out for that new two-handed swing of his. It should look a little different to those that remember how he used to finish on connected swings.
Despite my confidence in Bryant, I should point out that Zach Eflin has pretty extreme lefty/righty splits in favor of southpaws. The good news, however, is that besides the pitcher, Kyle Hendricks, Bryant and Baez are the only righties he’ll get to face tonight. I like those odds. With Aaron Nola looming tomorrow, the Cubs would be wise to win.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ closer to game time (6:05).