Chicago Cubs News: First base plans, Alexander Canario, and more
The Chicago Cubs' plan at first base involves a potential platoon between rookie first baseman Jared Young and veteran Trey Mancini as the plan is for center fielder Cody Bellinger to return to center field soon.
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Chicago Cubs News: First base plans, Alexander Canario, and more
Chicago Cubs plan for the first base position
Chicago Cubs rookie first baseman Jared Young was in the starting lineup for Wednesday's game against the Philadelphia Phillies and provided immediate impact as he hit his first-career home run in his first plate appearance of the season at the Major League level.
The Cubs lost 8-5 to the Phillies on Wednesday night but the team is hoping to capitalize on Young's hot bat. As for how Young will be used, Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic indicated that the Cubs plan to have a platoon at first base between Young and Trey Mancini.
With that plan, the Cubs are penciling in Cody Bellinger's return to center field in the near future. Bellinger had been playing first base since his return from injury and that was done as a way to expedite his return to the team's lineup. Mike Tauchman, who had been starting in center field in place of Bellinger, will move to a fourth outfielder role.
While Tauchman has been impressive as the team's starting center fielder, there is a benefit to the Cubs sliding the veteran journeyman into a more natural role as a reserve outfielder. Such a strategy will allow Tauchman to play when the matchup is favorable to his offensive approach.
Chicago Cubs outfield prospect Alexander Canario continuing rehab assignment with South Bend Cubs.
Chicago Cubs outfielder prospect Alexander Canario is making progress in his return from a freak injury last fall that required surgeries to repair a fractured ankle and dislocated shoulder. On Wednesday, the Iowa Cubs announced that Canario will be continuing his rehab assignment with the South Bend Cubs.
Canario went hitless in his first game with South Bend on Wednesday night but he did reach base twice and scored each time.
Jameson Taillon to remain in Chicago Cubs starting rotation
Chicago Cubs general manager Jed Carter met with reporters before Wednesday's loss to the Phillies and revealed that there are no plans for the team to take veteran starting pitcher Jameson Taillon out of the team's starting rotation.
• Cubs GM Carter Hawkins said Jameson Taillon will remain in the rotation.
— Patrick Mooney (@PJ_Mooney) June 28, 2023
• Seiya Suzuki (stiff neck) is not in tonight’s lineup.
• Marcus Stroman (blister) is planning for a bullpen session tomorrow.
• Brandon Hughes underwent a surgical debridement of his left knee.
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