UPDATE: Javy Baez wanted some extra at-bats before the postseason starts, so he’s replacing a totally healthy Willson Contreras at DH today. Updated lineup below.
In 2016, the Chicago Cubs clinched so early, they had rest days for a couple weeks before the playoffs began. Even 2017 allotted the Cubs (and us) some breathing room before the playoffs. But in 2018, they played a game 163 and in 2019 they finished third, so … it’s been quite a while since we’ve gotten a “Day After Clinching” lineup. I absolutely love it.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
1. Billy Hamilton, CF
2. Cameron Maybin, RF
3. Kyle Schwarber, LF
4. Kris Bryant, 3B
5. Willson Contreras, DH Javy Baez, DH
6. Victor Caratini, C
7. David Bote, 2B
8. Jason Kipnis, 1B
9. Nico Hoerner, SS
Well that’s fun!
With most of the regulars getting a day of rest, David Ross is leading things off with speedster and center fielder Billy Hamilton followed by Cameron Maybin in right. Kyle Schwarber (left), Kris Bryant (third), and Willson Contreras (DH) will still be in there, which I somewhat expected, especially for Bryant, because they can all stand to get a few more at-bats before the playoffs.
And, hey … someone’s gotta play, right?
Victor Caratini is behind the plate, where he’ll probably be only for Yu Darvish in October, and it’s good to see David Bote back out there at second. His bat could be very important in the postseason, if he’s fully healthy. Jason Kipnis covers first for Anthony Rizzo and Nico Hoerner takes over shortstop for Javy Baez. Fun lineup.
As usual, we’ll have your Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (2:10 CT).