After dropping the opener in Cincinnati last night, the Cubs will face the Reds again today, with another injury-modified lineup (Joc Pederson and Willson Contreras are both out). Take a look at David Ross’ plan for the right-hander, Luis Castillo, and the Reds.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
1. Ian Happ, CF
2. Kris Bryant, LF
3. Javy Baez, SS
4. Anthony Rizzo, 1B
5. David Bote, 3B
6. Jason Heyward, RF
7. Nico Hoerner, 2B
8. Tony Wolters, C
9. Zach Davies, P
After riding the bench in each of the last three games, Ian Happ is back in the starting lineup, leading off, and playing center field (where he started the year). I think it was clear that he needed that mini-break, and now we hope it does him well at the plate. Coming into the season, Happ was slashing .333/.460/.802 (216 wRC+) with a 19% walk rate and 10 HRs in 100 PAs at Great American Ballpark.
Willson Contreras is, as expected, out today, which means it’s the back-up-back-up catcher, Tony Wolters, time to shine. Matt Duffy and Jake Marisnick head back to the bench, with David Bote covering third, Kris Bryant out in left field, and Jason Heyward at his home in right.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (3:10 CT).