With their win last night, the Cubs have moved back to 2.5 games ahead of the Marlins in the reverse standings. Do with that information what you will ahead of tonight’s finale in Miami.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
- Esteban Quiroz, 2B
- David Bote, 3B
- Ian Happ, LF
- Franmil Reyes, DH
- Yan Gomes, C
- Patrick Wisdom, RF
- P.J. Higgins, 1B
- Zach McKinstry, SS
- Chris Morel, CF
SP: Marcus Stroman, RHP
Against a left-handed pitcher, Jesús Luzardo, David Ross is leading off with 30-year-old rookie and lefty Esteban Quiroz.
Quiroz went 2-3 yesterday in his starting debut and also flashed some leather. He’s got a tough challenge ahead of him tonight, but you know what they say … If not now, when? That leadoff decision pushes Zach McKinstry all the way down to 8th, batting just ahead of Chris Morel in center field.
The big news tonight, however, is Patrick Wisdom’s return to the starting lineup. Wisdom has been dealing with a finger injury, and excluding tonight, has made just one start in the last week. It’s good to have him back, though, as he still has some things to prove before the end of the year.
As usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (5:40 CT).