NEWSLETTER
Later this afternoon, the Cubs will play the finale in Milwaukee without Willson Contreras (hamstring) and Seiya Suzuki (just easing him back in, I hope?). If Chicago wins, it’ll mark their fourth-straight series victory, with series wins in 5 of their last 6 sets. How about that? Here’s David Ross’ lineup for Game 3 at American Family Field.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
- Rafael Ortega, LF
- Nico Hoerner, SS
- Ian Happ, DH
- Patrick Wisdom, 3B
- Nelson Velázquez, RF
- Alfonso Rivas, 1B
- P.J. Higgins, C
- Christopher Morel, CF
- Andrelton Simmons, 2B
SP: Adrian Sampson, RHP
There’s actually a lot to discuss today. For one, this is the rare lineup without Contrears or Yan Gomes, with P.J. Higgins grabbing the start behind the plate. That leaves DH open for Ian Happ and first base open for Alfonso Rivas.
With Happ at DH and Suzuki on the bench, left and right field are available for Rafael Ortega Nelson Velázquez, who’s batting fifth. And Christopher Morel returns to the starting lineup, batting 8th and playing center field.
Notably, Andrelton Simmons is at second base, despite David Bote being the clear preference there. After that bunt attempt with two strikes yesterday (and his early exit), I think that shoulder must just not be feeling good.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (1:10 CT).
