Chicago Cubs Lineup: Heyward Hitting Fifth as Russell Sits, Montero Gets Second Straight Start

Schwarbryzzobrist is a given at this point, but things get a little interesting after that. Jason Heyward, who has a six-game hitting streak and has collected a knock in 11 of his last 12 games, moves up to the fifth spot vacated by Addison Russell. Don’t worry, it’s just a day off.

Miguel Montero is in the sixth spot and getting his second consecutive start, which is a bit odd given the dynamism of Willson Contreras. Then again, perhaps this is Joe Maddon’s way of teaching his hyper young backstop a lesson. Contreras made an ill-advised throw late in Monday’s game that allowed Ryan Braun to score. Though it didn’t decide the game, it’s far from the first time Contreras has gotten a little overzealous with that cannon of his.

Javy Baez fills in at short for Russell and takes the seventh spot, followed by Brett Anderson and Jon Jay. The Cubs are going lefty-heavy — another reason for Miggy over WillCo — against righty Jimmy Nelson. Though his early splits are insanely good against lefties, Nelson has not fared very well against them historically.

First pitch is at 7:05 CT and the game will be on WGN, which means those of you outside of the greater Chicago area are going to need to find your local affiliate if you want to watch. Or you can tune the dial to 670AM for Pat Hughes and Ron Coomer on The Score.