Chicago Cubs Lineup: Lackey Pitching, Coghlan in Left, Contreras Catching

The Chicago Cubs (73-42) finally lost a game on Saturday, their first in twelve games. We’ll see how the they respond tonight with John Lackey (9-7, 3.56 ERA) pitching on ESPN Sunday Night Baseball as they close out their four-game series against the St. Louis Cardinals (61-56).

Lackey has had troubles giving up early runs a lot lately, so it’s going to be interesting to see if he can finally break that trend. It’s one that stretches over his last seven consecutive starts, all of which he’s given up at least one run in the first two innings.

Joe Maddon has Chris Coghlan starting today in left field, which should be a good match up going up against the right handed pitching Mike Leake.

Willson Contreras will be catching today for John Lackey. Normally I’d think nothing of it, but I do find it interesting that Joe is deciding to go with the righty bat instead of opting to go for Montero. Of course, it has everything to do with the fact that Willson is hitting .261 this year against right handed pitching compared to Montero who’s batting .193. Kinda makes it an easier decision when you look at it that way.