If anyone knows how to set a lineup against Jon Lester it’s David Ross, right? Here’s the Cubs lineup against Lester and the Nationals, in the first of a four-game series at Wrigley Field.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
1. Willson Contreras, C
2. Kris Bryant, LF
3. Anthony Rizzo, 1B
4. Javier Báez, SS
5. Matt Duffy, 3B
6. Jason Heyward, RF
7. Nico Hoerner, 2B
8. Ian Happ, CF
9. Albert Alzolay, P
This is where I’d love to dive into a Cubs player’s history against tonight’s opposing starter. HOWEVER, there simply isn’t a ton of data for active Cubs against Lester. It’s not unexpected, especially after Lester spent the last six years in Chicago. But still … where am I supposed to go from here? How am I supposed to feel? Why am I trapped in this glass case of emotion?
For what it’s worth, Lester is 2-0 with a 5.68 ERA against the Cubs. Willson Contreras, Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo, Javier Báez, Jason Heyward, Nico Hoerner, and Ian Happ don’t have ABs against the veteran lefty. Matt Duffy has a hit in two career ABs. Tony Wolters is 2-for-4 against Lester all-time. With a .500 batting average, maybe he should’ve gotten a start? (Joking.)
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (6:40 CT).