Chicago Cubs Series Preview: Reds scuffling as Cubs come to Cincinnati

(Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)
(Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)
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Chicago Cubs
(Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images)

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.

Schedule