Whenever I post about the newest Cubs lineup, I usually focus on that particular group’s offensive potential against the opposing starting pitcher. Sometimes, defensive matchups, injuries, ineffectiveness, roster-decisions, and other unique matters pop up, but basically, yeah: it’s the offense on our mind.
That feels silly now, though. The Cubs have scored 10 runs or more in three games this season, 6 runs or more in four games, and 4 runs or more in six of their seven games. They should probably be pretty close to 5-2. Instead, because of the pitching, they’re 1-6.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
- Daniel Descalso, 2B
- Kris Bryant, 3B
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Javy Baez, SS
- Kyle Schwarber, LF
- Albert Almora, Jr., CF
- Jason Heyward, RF
- Victor Caratini, C
- Cole Hamels, P
Corbin Burnes doesn’t have a large sample of big league innings under his belt, but in the time he has been out there, he’s struck out righties at 34.2% clip (114 right-handed batters faced). Good luck to Albert Almora, Jr. in this one, as he has yet to fare consistently well against tough righties.
As has become something of a norm, Victor Caratini catches Cole Hamels.
Daniel Descalso, who is hitting everything right now, gets a crack at the leadoff spot in this one. Ride the hot hand and all that.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ closer to game time (6:10 CT).