Chicago Cubs Lineup (3/22/19, SS): Zobrist Leads Off at 1B, Schwarber Second, Quintana Facing Rangers

Ben Zobrist leads off at first base in the early half of today’s split-squad action, Kyle Schwarber bats second in left, and Willson Contreras bats third. Javy Báez cleans up at short, a common sight we’re likely to see more of once the games count, and David Bote is at third.

Jason Heyward plays right, Albert Almora Jr. is in center, and Trent Giambrone will bat ninth. Even as the lineups undergo changes necessitated by the spring slate, we’re seeing a few trends that should continue. In addition to El Mago at cleanup, a split of Zobrist and Almora atop the order has been established. And when the latter isn’t leading off, he’ll be closer to the bottom.

Speaking of which, Cubs pitchers have been batting eighth regularly.

Jose Quintana is on the bump in what could be a preview of the season’s opening series. Joe Maddon had indicated that he could go with a lefty-heavy rotation against a Rangers team replete with left-handed hitters. That possibility grew at least a little bit when Yu Darvish left his recent start with a blister, which could force the Cubs to push his spot back.

First pitch from Sloan Park is at 3:05pm CT and can be seen on WGN (or local stations in other markets that happen to be syndicating it) or heard via MLB.com