I thought it might have been a day off for Christopher Morel, who struck out four times yesterday (after a prolonged stretch of striking out constantly), but instead he’s just moving down in the order. I wouldn’t have minded some rest, myself, but I also appreciate keeping him in there to get the bad taste out of his mouth.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
- Rafael Ortega, LF
- Willson Contreras, C
- Ian Happ, DH
- Patrick Wisdom, 3B
- Nico Hoerner, SS
- Nelson Velázquez, RF
- Alfonso Rivas, 1B
- David Bote, 2B
- Christopher Morel, CF
SP: Justin Steele, LHP
Rafael Ortega takes over leadoff duties in Morel’s absence, playing left field as Ian Happ gets the DH spot tonight. Willson Contreras is still in there behind the plate, and it’s Nelson Velázquez in right field.
David Bote continues to draw all the starts at second base, and the red-hot Nico Hoerner is still at shortstop. Again, this is hardly a playoff caliber lineup, but at least this is a more interesting group than we had there at the end of May/beginning of June.
Now just bring Seiya Suzuki back, please (hey, his rehab stint is starting tomorrow!).
Full Pre-Gamin’ post coming later today.