We’re back in action tonight in Cincinnati, where Drew Smyly and the Cubs will take on Vladimir Gutierrez and the Cincinnati Reds. Here’s the Cubs lineup for the first of four games.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
1. Rafael Ortega, CF
2. Jonathan Villar, 2B
3. Seiya Suzuki, RF
4. Ian Happ, LF
5. Yan Gomes, C
6. Frank Schwindel, DH
7. Alfonso Rivas, 1B
8. Patrick Wisdom, 3B
9. Christopher Morel, SS
SP: Drew Smyly, LHP
The Reds righty, Gutierrez, has not been particularly effectively against righty or lefty hitters in his short big league career, but lefties have definitely gotten to him more: .272/.366/.570 (.394 wOBA). Ian Happ, playing left field and batting fourth, is one of the four lefties Gutierrez will face tonight, and he’s had a particularly good time hitting at Great American Ballpark throughout his career (132 PAs): .342/.447/.784 (212 wRC+).
But perhaps the most exciting part about this lineup is yet another start at a different position for recently promoted (straight out of Double-A) Cubs prospect Christopher Morel. He’s getting the nod at short over Andrelton Simmons, marking the fourth new position he’s started at in six games (3B, 2B, CF, and now SS).
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (5:40 CT).