Chicago cubs lineup

Chicago Cubs Lineup: Jay Leads Off, Rizzo Third, Caratini Gets First Start in Cincy

Photo of Evan Altman Evan AltmanJune 30, 2017

Jon Jay is back in the leadoff spot with Ian Happ batting second and Anthony Rizzo once more in the three hole. Willson Contreras will clean things up and play left. Addison Russell’s shoulder is good enough to see him starting at short again, batting fifth.

Victor Caratini will get his first MLB start, followed by Javy Baez playing third and Albert Almora Jr. in center. This is an interesting lineup, though it’s more out of necessity than just some weird invention of Joe Maddon’s imagination.

Mike Montgomery has been solid in his four starts thus far and should be pretty well stretched out for the Reds. Known more for the curve and change, Monty’s cutter has served him quite well as he’s moved into the rotation. If he’s got his whole repertoire working, he should be able to hold the Reds at bay.

Scott Feldman is just the gift that keeps on giving to the Cubs. Not only did he help them jettison Steve Clevenger in the trade that returned Jake Arrieta and Pedro Strop, but he gave them a bunch of runs in only 2.2 innings the last time he faced his old team.

There’s really nothing much to say about the big right-hander that you don’t already know, other than maybe that he’s been relatively tough on righties. Actually, he has been a lot better at home, come to think of it. He’s allowing only a .724 OPS at GABP vs. an .804 mark on the road. Perhaps the Cubs can put that to the test this evening.

First pitch from Cincy is at 6:10 CT and will be carried by WGN.

Photo of Evan Altman Evan AltmanJune 30, 2017
Back to top button