Chicago Cubs News: Morrow far from a disaster; Heyward at leadoff?

In today’s Morning Marquee, we delve into several different topics on the Chicago Cubs. Could Jason Heyward–in time–hit leadoff? And Brandon Morrow at closer? There are much worse things than that.

The Chicago Cubs‘ Jason Heyward hasn’t thrilled fans with his bat. While his glove has been gold, upping his average this past season wasn’t enough to silence his critics. But what if Heyward was to bat leadoff? In time, of course. We aren’t saying we’d start him there, just that there’s a chance he could end up there. Maybe with a little help from Chili Davis. But worst case, he can’t strand any runners there his first time up. So that would be a plus to some.

The Cubs won’t have Wade Davis to turn to in the ninth inning this season. Instead, they’ll turn it over to Brandon Morrow. After a successful 2017 season, many point to the fact that he pitched just 49 innings because of injury in 2015 and 2016. But that’s part of what makes the Cubs plan work. A clear plan of action. They’re going to go with Morrow in the ninth, one inning of work. With the additions of Steve Cishek and Dario Alvarez, as well, the Cubs have the firepower to get it to Morrow.

We might not know who the leadoff hitter for the Cubs will be. Although, we keep trying everybody here and hoping they might be the one. But what I do know? Bryant-Rizzo-Contreras should be 2-3-4. Now, I, of course, didn’t just make this up. Other than Anthony Rizzo with a few solid seasons under his belt, Willson Contreras and Kris Bryant don’t have that. But last season, they hit out of the two and four-spot and did amazingly well. So I see no reason not to pencil these guys into there and figure the rest out as we go.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Could Heyward be the leadoff man?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Morrow is far from a disaster at closer’– Cubbies Crib

‘Why it should be Bryant-Rizzo-Contreras’ – Cubbies Crib

‘The trucks are off: Spring previews for all 30 teams’ – MLB.com

‘Cards’ Poncedeleon will head to spring workouts’ – ESPN

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