The Chicago Cubs are beginning another series against the Cardinals tonight – this one in St. Louis – and here’s their lineup for Game 1.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:Â
- Kyle Schwarber, LF
- Kris Bryant, 3B
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Javy Baez, SS
- Jason Heyward, RF
- Addison Russell, 2B
- Victor Caratini, C
- Albert Almora Jr., CF
- Yu Darvish, P
Although this lineup looks very familiar, there are actually a few notable bits. For one, I love that Kyle Schwarber has continued to solidify his position atop the lineup. His overall performance has been improving lately, but in the meantime he’s seeing a lot of pitches, taking plenty of walks, hitting for some power, and getting on base. He’s struggled against Miles Mikolas for his career, but lefties are CRUSHING Mikolas this season (.303/.367/.596), so I’m hoping for big things tonight.
Beyond that, I’m glad to see Kris Bryant back at third base and Javy Baez back at short. Both guys have spent time DHing and/or in positions other than their own, in part due to injuries, so I’m glad to see them all back.
As for Victor Caratini, he gets the expected start with Yu Darvish on the mound, which has the side-benefit of getting Willson Contreras (hitless in three straight games) two days of with the off-day yesterday. Addison Russell has been hitting much better lately and also gets a move up in the lineup. Mikolas has been tough on righties this season, though, so it won’t be an easy matchup for him.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (7:15 CT). And remember, Luis and I will be hosting our third episode of Outside the Ivy tonight after the post-game on NBC Sports Chicago and Facebook!