The nature of this Cubs offense isn’t nearly as feast or famine as it has appeared in this series against the Pirates. So I am obviously expecting another 20+ run explosion this afternoon. Consistency.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
1. Rafael Ortega, DH
2. Seiya Suzuki, RF
3. Willson Contreras, C
4. Ian Happ, LF
5. Frank Schwindel, 1B
6. Jonathan Villar, SS
7. Jason Heyward, CF
8. Patrick Wisdom, 3B
9. Nick Madrigal, 2B
Nico Hoerner is getting a breather today, and the Cubs are filling in as best they can without a true backup shortstop. Nick Madrigal takes his “second leadoff” spot in the order and Jonathan Villar will cover the position, despite some defensive issues at third base (maybe some slightly shorter throws will help …?).
None of that is ideal given how well Hoerner has been playing on both sides of the ball and how much the Cubs could use this win today, but even the healthiest players need rest. And Nico Hoerner is *not* one of the healthiest players. Actively managing his work load is of the utmost importance for the Cubs coaching staff – and not just for this season.
Beyond that, I would have loved preferred (are you happy, you rascals?) to see Rafael Ortega in center field with Alfonso Rivas as the DH, but Jason Heyward is going to start for the Cubs until the sun expands and engulfs the Earth in a firey blaze of hydrogen helium, during which Heyward will give a locker room speech that earns him another 8-year contract extension with the Space Cubs.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (1:20 CT).