Chicago Cubs News: Zobrist pushing for playing time; Rizzo hurt

The Chicago Cubs’ Ben Zobrist is making his case for more playing time. With Anthony Rizzo headed to the 10-day DL, he’s likely to get his chance and more.

For the Chicago Cubs‘ Ben Zobrist, he was supposed to be a veteran bench presence. Someone who could fill in from time to time. Well, Zobrist didn’t like that plan. Over the course of the first week and a half, he’s been the Cubs best hitter. Taking walks. Not striking out. Getting the big hit. Now past all the injuries from last year, Zobrist looks to prove that he’s more than a bench presence. So far he’s doing just that.

With Anthony Rizzo place on the DL (retroactive to 4/6), the Cubs will be without one of their best hitters. Back spasms are a tough issue for anyone to deal with, even athletes. So what would the Cubs do? Under the assumption that Rizzo returns this year, there are still some options–mostly stopgap. If Rizzo misses extended time, the Cubs could look to several different options–maybe even across town. But let’s just hope for the best as he should be back for the Cardinals series.

The weather didn’t agree with the Cubs, forcing a postponement due to snow. But we still had our series preview, which is still in line. The red-hot Pirates will send Ivan Nova to the mound to take on Tyler Chatwood in the opener. The Buccos come in 7-2 and first in the division. The Cubs took a percentage points lead over the Brewers, but both two games behind the Pirates.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Cubs’ Zobrist forcing the issue’ – Cubbies Crib

‘What would the Cubs do if Rizzo’s out?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Series preview versus the Pirates’ – Cubbies Crib

‘With 6th straight win, Mets match best start’ – MLB.com

‘Holland walks four in debut as Cards lose’ – ESPN

#Cubs on Twitter

https://twitter.com/Kelly_Crull/status/983364727328989184

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