Cubs vs. Rockies: Cubs Lineup, Pitching Matchup, How to Watch, More

March 5, 2023, by Michael Cerami Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs have won four Cactus League games in a row, largely on the strength of absolutely dominant pitching. Over those four games, their opponents (Mariners, A’s, Padres, Angels) have scored a COMBINED four runs, three of which came in the first game against Seattle. Over their last three games? 1ER, 12H, 11 walks, 22 strikeouts. Oh, yeah, and that included a no-hitter.

It’s only Spring Training, so again, whatever on the results. But the Cubs have clearly made an effort to improve their overall pitching infrastructure — from the prospects they target, to the players they sign in free agency, to the catchers who call their games, to the brains in the front office pulling all the strings — so this is particularly nice to see.

Chicago Cubs Lineup:

Nick Madrigal, 3B
Dansby Swanson, SS
Ian Happ, LF
Trey Mancini, RF
Cody Bellinger, CF
Yan Gomes, C
David Bote, 2B
Matt Mervis, 1B
Nelson Velázquez, DH

SP: Drew Smyly, LHP

I know this lineup – even with a healthy Seiya Suzuki – won’t strike terror in the minds of opposing starting pitchers, but gosh darn it, I like watching this group play. Especially when Matt Mervis is starting at first base over Eric Hosmer. I’m just anxious to see what he and Bellinger and Mancini and Velázquez can be this season. And for as much heartburn Nick Madrigal gave us last year, his potential remains, too. He’s only 26 and was hurt all year last year, after all.

I guess this group is really just a test of preference: upside or floor. The Cubs are definitely not DEFINITELY going to be good this season. But there are a lot of fun lottery tickets. I probably won’t think it’s all that cool come July. But for spring? With hope at every corner? It’s difficult to ignore!