Alright, the Cubs have lost four of their last 5 games and that’s no fun for anybody. It’s time for Jon Lester, and here’s the group behind him.
Chicago Cubs Lineup
- Kyle Schwarber, LF
- Javy Baez, DH
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Willson Contreras, C
- Albert Almora Jr., CF
- Jason Heyward, RF
- Addison Russell, SS
- Daniel Descalso, 2B
- David Bote, 3B
Well, we figured Kris Bryant wouldn’t be back tonight after colliding with Jason Heyward in the outfield over the weekend, but at least Jason Heyward has returned to right field. He’ll bat sixth tonight.
But with Bryant out, that means another start for David Bote at third base, and with Javy Baez manning the DH spot again (a night after he struck out 5 straight times), that means Addison Russell is at shortstop and Daniel Descalso gets another shot at second base. In other words: the Cubs are playing at less than their optimal offensive and defensive alignment at the moment and it’s not great timing against a good team like the Astros. I suppose injuries are gonna happen, though.
Speaking of the Astros, Corbin Martin is starting tonight. The young righty has made just three starts this season and has been clobbered by righties during that time (.471 wOBA). Obviously, we’re talking about a small sample here, but I’m desperate for a Cubs offensive blowout right now. Maybe Albert Almora Jr. – batting 5th tonight! – can keep that hot streak alive and drive the heart of the Cubs lineup across the plate a few times, eh?
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (7:10 CT).