Lester to Start Game 2, Rotation Setting Up (Updated)

We had already assumed as much, but the Cubs have officially announced that Jon Lester will start Sunday’s Game 2 in LA. They have not announced the choices for the first two games back in Chicago, but it would make sense to go with Kyle Hendricks and Jake Arrieta. And I mean in that order, since it’s obvious that they’ll be pitching.

That would keep Hendricks on normal rest, though it would mean Arrieta having six days between starts. Then again, that’s like eight days less than his last break and a little extra time off for that hammy isn’t a bad idea. And given the way he’s pitched his last two times out, Arrieta isn’t the guy you want taking the bump for Game 7. While the Cubs could throw Hendricks in Game 4 and then turn him around on short rest, it doesn’t seem prudent to do so.

Lester looked great in his start against Washington and was excellent in an extended relief appearance in Wednesday’s game as well. He’s got the ability to stay focused in pressure situations and I’m looking forward to seeing him pitch in LA.

***Update***

The Cubs have announced that Kyle Hendricks will indeed take Game 3, with Jake Arrieta going in Game 4.