Pregame Chatter: Lackey Starting Today – Cubs v Reds

Today is going to be another exciting one at Sloan Park as John Lackey makes his first appearance in a Cubs uniform. Look for John to go at least two innings today in a similar manner to both Lester and Arrieta’s first outings this spring.

Here’s the lineup:

John Lackey (R)@ Red – Robert Stephenson (R)
1. Dexter Fowler (S) CF
2. Jason Heyward (L) RF
3. Ben Zobrist (S) 2B
4. Anthony Rizzo (L) 1B
5. Addison Russell (R) SS
6. Miguel Montero (L) C
7. Shane Victorino (S) LF
8. Dan Vogelbach (L) DH
9. Jeimer Candelario (S) 3B

Victorino, Vogelbach and Candelario have all been getting quality playing time this spring. I don’t expect any of them to make the 25-man roster on opening day but Joe is at least getting them in there so he can see them perform first-hand.

Of the three, Victornio has the highest likelihood to make it to the big league roster at some point if he can perform. Although, so far this spring he’s hitting .200/.273/.200 so you never know, he could get cut too. Last year he batted .230 with one home run in 73 games, so don’t be surprised if he doesn’t make the team.

That’s all for this morning. See you at the game!