Heading into the series: Chicago Cubs
Record: 2-2, 3rd in National League Central
Record (Last 10): 2-2
ERA: 3.50
OBP: .320
HR: 5
Team Leader (WAR): N/A
Bryant, Rizzo need to lead the Cubs at the plate
Kris Bryant has been impressive, batting .389 (7-for-18) against the Marlins this weekend. But his partner in crime Anthony Rizzo was a no-show, batting .150 (3-for-20) with a home run and three RBI. Rizzo started slow last season but picked it up in the second half. The Cubs could really use his bat at the top of the order.
What’s been impressive for the Cubs is the performance of Jason Heyward, Kyle Schwarber and Addison Russell. While still very early, each has managed to make solid contact. The progression of each of these three will be paramount to their success.
On the opposite side of the coin is Javier Baez. He’s been struggling at the plate, batting just .167 in 15 at-bats. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Ben Zobrist get a few starts at second base to let Baez clear his head a bit.