Chicago Cubs Lineup (5/31/22): Steele Pitching, Morel Leads Off, Frazier in Right

The Chicago Cubs (19-29) take on the NL Central division-leading Milwaukee Brewers (32-18) in game three of the four-game set tonight at Wrigley Field. The Cubs have struggled mightily at home so far this season, posting a 7-17 record at the not-so-friendly confines.

Justin Steele (1-5, 5.40 ERA) is having a pretty good year for the Cubs so far but you could never tell by looking at his ERA. That inflated ERA is largely the product of poor defense behind him. His FIP is a solid 3.22 and it’s rare to see such a huge disparity between a pitcher’s ERA and FIP. Opponents are batting .354 on balls in play (BABIP) against Steele where the league average is normally right around .300.

The Brewers have feasted off the longball this year, hitting a league-leading 69 home runs. In Monday’s doubleheader, the Brewers scored 8 of their 10 runs off home runs. The good news is that Steele has allowed just two home runs over 35 innings pitched. If he can force the Brewers to keep the ball in the field of play, the Cubs’ chances to win tonight will increase dramatically.

Leading off, once again, for the Cubs tonight is Christopher Morel in center, Willson Contreras is catching, Patrick Wisdom at third, and Frank Schwindel in DH. Nico Hoerner is at short, Ian Happ is in left, Clint Frazier is playing right, Alfonso Rivas is at first, and Andrelton Simmons is at second.

First pitch is scheduled for 7:05pm CT and the game will be broadcast on Marquee Sports Network and 670 The Score.

Here is tonight's #Cubs starting lineup at Wrigley Field. pic.twitter.com/PbYE1ycn6p

— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) May 31, 2022