Chicago Cubs Lineup (3/7/23): Madrigal at 3B, Bellinger in CF, Sampson Starting

The Cubs have won six straight behind strong pitching and timely hitting, a combination they’ll have to keep riding once the games actually matter. Skeptics will say spring results don’t matter, and they’re right, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take something away from these games. The lineup is full of professional hitters and the pitching depth is legit.

One of those professional hitters is Nick Madrigal, who is once again leading off at third base. Cody Bellinger is next in center, then it’s Edwin Ríos at first and Yan Gomes catching. Mike Tauchman bats fifth in left, followed by Chris Morel in right and David Bote at DH. Zack McKinstry handles second and Sergio Alcántara is at short.

Adrian Sampson is on the mound trying to state his case one day after Hayden Wesneski made another strong argument in favor of a spot in the rotation. Wesneski has better stuff, but Sampson has more experience and a recent track record of excellent performance. Adbert Alzolay, Nick Burdi, Anthony Kay, Cam Sanders, and Eric Stout are all scheduled to appear in relief.

First pitch from the the Rangers’ spring home at Surprise Stadium is at 2:05pm CT on Marquee Sports Network.

Here is today's #Cubs starting lineup! pic.twitter.com/0mJe9pcg62

— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) March 7, 2023