Tonight, the Cubs open up their final series before the Trade Deadline, a four-game set against the Reds at Wrigley Field. Kyle Hendricks is pitching for the Cubs, while the Reds are throwing left-hander Wade Miley. Here’s David Ross’ lineup for the opener.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
1. Willson Contreras, C
2. Kris Bryant, RF
3. Anthony Rizzo, 1B
4. Matt Duffy, 3B
5. Patrick Wisdom, LF
6. David Bote, 2B
7. Jake Marisnick, CF
8. Nico Hoerner, SS
9. Kyle Hendricks, P
As you’ll note right away, Javy Baez is not in the starting lineup, but that was to be expected (he’ll likely miss tomorrow night’s game with a bruised heel, as well). In other words, don’t read into it.
Nico Hoerner is covering for him at shortstop, opening up second base for David Bote and left field for Patrick Wisdom. And with Kris Bryant also in right field, the Cubs found a way to get all four of their right-handed third basemen in the lineup against the lefty Wade Miley.
Indeed, with Jake Marisnick in center field and Willson Contreras leading off and behind the plate, the only left-handed hitter in the Cubs lineup is Anthony Rizzo.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (7:05 CT).