The last time the Cubs and Giants squared off at Wrigley Field, it marked the emotional return of Kris Bryant to the Friendly Confines after being dealt to San Francisco at the 2021 MLB Trade Deadline. A year later, that emotional pull isn’t there. But these teams play on as they try to finish out the year strong. There are plenty of players on both sides who have something to prove this weekend.
Here’s Manager David Ross’ lineup for the opener of this three-game set.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
- Nick Madrigal, 2B
- Seiya Suzuki, RF
- Franmil Reyes, DH
- Nico Horner, SS
- Yan Gomes, C
- Alfonso Rivas, 1B
- Michael Hermosillo, CF
- David Bote, 3B
- Christopher Morel, LF
SP: Drew Smyly, LHP
It is an off day for Ian Happ, who is just 3-for-22 to start September. Happ had been scorching the ball prior to this six-game funk, slashing hitting .289 with a .349 wOBA and 125 wRC+ in 156 PA that came after the All-Star Break but before the calendar flipped to September. With Happ out of the lineup, the Cubs outfield alignment takes a different shape with Christopher Morel in left and Michael Hermosillo returning to the lineup to play center field. Hermosillo fills in for Nelson Velázquez, who was in the original starting lineup.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (3:05 CT). See ya then.