When the Cubs lineup came out earlier today, I was pretty surprised by two things; (1) the absence of recently called-up masher Robel Garcia and (2) Willson Contreras in right field.
And while I’m still not 100% sure why Garcia isn’t starting tonight – especially after hearing the news that follows – we’ve at least got a resolution to surprise #2:
Bryant was banged up in Cincy, sliding a couple times. Has had ice on his knee last few says so Maddon gave him the day off. Heyward sliding in OF yesterday, came in today needing off as well. Garcia likely to start tomorrow
— Jesse Rogers (@ESPNChiCubs) July 3, 2019
After a couple of rough slides in Cincinnati, Kris Bryant’s knees were apparently a little banged up, prompting Joe Maddon to give him the night off tonight. At the same time, Jason Heyward, who’s been one of the hottest hitters on the team, was headed towards a day off soon anyway, but after sliding into the OF wall in Pittsburgh last night, got that rest today.
Both rests are perfectly understandable given the information provided, but if anything this makes the decision to NOT start Robel Garcia tonight even more confusing. Maybe there’s some obvious reason I’m not seeing – like travel or something – but ooook. According to Rogers, Garcia will start tomorrow night.