The Cubs have already won this series, but I think we’re all pulling hard for a sweep. It’s just the Marlins after all, right?
Chicago Cubs Lineup:Â
- Ben Zobrist, RF
- Kris Bryant, 3B
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Javy Baez, SS
- Jason Heyward, CF
- Willson Contreras, C
- Daniel Descalso, 2B
- Kyle Schwarber, LF
- Cole Hamels, P
After a hot start to the season (136 wRC+ through his first 32 plate appearances), Kyle Schwarber hit … a bit of a wall (.083/.120/.208 (-19 wRC+), 40.0 K%) through his next 25 plate appearances.
But after a rainout on Sunday and two days on the bench, Schwarber has gotten a nice little break to clear his mind and is back in the lineup tonight in left field. That means Kris Bryant is shifting back into the infield and David Bote is hitting the bench.
Daniel Descalso is at second base again today (he’s been red hot), but he’s not leading off as Ben Zobrist returns to the lineup to play right. And with that shift, Jason Heyward slides over to center field in place of Albert Almora.
Altogether, tonight’s Marlins starter, Sandy Alcantara, will face five left-handed batters, not including the pitcher, Cole Hamels. Though, it’s worth pointing out that he actually has reverse splits for his admittedly short career.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (6:10 CT).