Chicago Cubs Lineup (3/8/20, LV SS): Bryant Leads Off, Hoerner at SS, Rea Pitching

In what has been the closest simulation yet to the regular season, the Cubs are playing their second game in a row against the same opponent in the same park. Yesterday’s affair in Vegas wasn’t terribly successful, but maybe they can get over on the Reds this afternoon.

Kris Bryant leads off at third, with Anthony Rizzo at first and Josh Phegley catching. Ian Happ cleans up in center, Nico Hoerner bats fifth at short, Jason Kipnis is at second, and Noel Cuevas is in right. Trent Giambrone serves as DH and Ian Miller finishes the order in left.

Colin Rea is making his second start and fourth overall appearance as he preps for a likely role as a depth starter in Triple-A. His ERA is an unsightly 7.20, a matter of not missing enough bats and then being stung by a homer. He really needs to keep the command tight in order to be successful moving forward.

The 3:05pm CT start will be broadcast exclusively on Marquee Sports Network, so there’s no radio call on this one. There won’t be Cubs radio on the other half of the split-squad setup in Arizona, which is a little odd. Better get that free trial of MLB.com fired up.

Game 2 in Vegas! pic.twitter.com/9mxxbwhLal

— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) March 8, 2020