The Cubs have another double-header on tap today. And here’s how they’ll line up for the first game against Trevor Bauer and the Reds.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:Â
1. Ian Happ, CF
2. Anthony Rizzo, 1B
3. Javy Baez, SS
4. Kyle Schwarber, LF
5. Willson Contreras, DH
6. Jason Heyward, RF
7. Victor Caratini, C
8. Jason Kipnis, 2B
9. Nico Hoerner, 3B
David Ross is not going with much of a split squad for at least the first-half of today’s double-header, with every expected starter in there across the diamond. For example, Victor Caratini is behind the plate with Yu Darvish on the mound, and the only thing that really stands out is Nico Hoerner at third base again, instead of David Bote (though Hoerner has drawn a few starts at 3B lately, so that’s not even strange anymore).
It’s become clear that Ross means what he said: this team is going to live and die with their core. I suppose that makes sense, who else are you going to start? But I do wish we saw a little bit of a lineup shakeup, I think. Anything that might get these guys going before the 9th inning.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (3:10 CT).