Cubs Name Jon Lester Opening Day Starter

Photo of Evan Altman Evan AltmanFebruary 27, 2018

In a move that had already been widely speculated, the Cubs officially named Jon Lester as the Opening Day starter ahead of his spring debut Tuesday. It’s still super early and a lot can happen between now and March 29, but a six-man rotation, split-squad games, and a few off-days afford a good deal of wiggle room to ensure this works out.

And if things stay as they are right now and the Cubs go with five starters to open the season, Lester will be in line to start the home opener on April 9 as well. Though an argument could be made that Lester is actually the Cubs’ fourth-best starter, he’s absolutely paid his dues and this makes sense from a seniority standpoint.

Given the long season and an increased number of rest days, not to mention injuries and matchups, it’s not as if the pitching order will remain static. If, however, the Cubs stick with the spring order, Lester will be followed by Kyle Hendricks, Yu Darvish, Jose Quintana, and Tyler Chatwood. Not too shabby.

Photo of Evan Altman Evan AltmanFebruary 27, 2018
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