Chicago Cubs: Position-by-position matchup versus the Indians

Oct 22, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) reacts after defeating the Los Angeles Dodgers in game six of the 2016 NLCS playoff baseball series at Wrigley Field. Cubs win 5-0 to advance to the World Series. Mandatory Credit: Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) reacts after defeating the Los Angeles Dodgers in game six of the 2016 NLCS playoff baseball series at Wrigley Field. Cubs win 5-0 to advance to the World Series. Mandatory Credit: Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports
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Oct 22, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) scores against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the first inning of game six of the 2016 NLCS playoff baseball series at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler (24) scores against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the first inning of game six of the 2016 NLCS playoff baseball series at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

Dexter Fowler versus Tyler Naquin

The veteran versus the rookie. The All-Star versus the New Kid.

The strength of both Fowler and Naquin is their ability to get on base. Fowler is one of the best in the majors, ranking in the top 10 with a .393 on-base percentage. Had Naquin qualified, his .372 OBP would be close to the top 30.

Even so, Fowler’s base running ability allowed him to score 84 runs. And, his switch-hitting skill does not limit him to facing only right handed pitching.

The Cubs are loaded with left-handed pithcers. Naquin has only 40 plate appearances against lefty pitchers. Terry Francona could bring in Brandon Guyer in those situations. Even so, the Cubs pitchers have shown they can handle anything.

Advantage: Cubs

Schedule