Chicago Cubs News: Winter not kind; Caratini fills in

With the early season schedule the Chicago Cubs have played, it’s not been kind to them. And while Victor Caratini was nothing more than a fill-in at first base, he was a solid one, nonetheless.

Each year, Chicago Cubs and MLB go through this. And in this case, it’s even more notable as the team’s started their seasons early. This isn’t basketball. All these teams aren’t indoors. So what do you do? Do you shift away from games to warmer climates, but then have them be away from home most of the spring? Nobody is going to like that. How about fewer days off? We tried that. That’s how we got to this point. Maybe if MLB would foot the bill for dome stadiums? Hmmm?

The Cubs’ Victor Caratini was never supposed to fill in long-term for them. But in his few games out there, he performed admirably well. The Cubs now know that where they need to be without Anthony Rizzo for a few games, they can hold court with Caratini. He fielded the position well and even got a few hits. He was no Rizzo, but the Cubs were happy they kept him at .500.

With Rizzo now healthy, the Cubs will look to get themselves on a run and get back into the race. The Cubs have been setting a snail’s pace, going .500 through their first 14 games. But if there were ever a time to turn it on, it would be now. The Cubs play the St. Louis Cardinals for a brief two-game set (Monday’s was postponed). There would be nothing better than to take care of the Cards for two games. Rizzo is likely to be right in the middle of it.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Questions about schedule raise concerns for safety’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs’ Caratini fills in nicely as first base’ – Cubbies Crib

‘A healthy Rizzo will boost Cubs’ lineup’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Harper’s 8th home run leads Nats’ – MLB.com

‘Cubs dropping in power rankings’ – ESPN

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