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Chicago Cubs: Predicting the Opening Day Lineup

By Dan Schmelzer

Oct 22, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the fifth inning of game six of the 2016 NLCS playoff baseball series at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the fifth inning of game six of the 2016 NLCS playoff baseball series at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports /
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Ben Zobrist Chicago Cubs
Nov 2, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Ben Zobrist hits a RBI double against the Cleveland Indians in the 10th inning in game seven of the 2016 World Series at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

1. 2B Ben Zobrist

It will be very interesting to see how the Cubs replace Dexter Fowler in the leadoff spot in 2017. If he improves, I wonder if Jason Heyward will get a crack and slugger Kyle Schwarber feels like a real option. That being said, World Series MVP Ben Zobrist makes the most sense on paper.

Zobrist is an extremely clutch and reliable hitter who controls the bat extremely well. He is a patient hitter who never extends the strike zone. His speed is not ideal for a leadoff hitter, but that is an aged theory anyway. Zobrist’s ability to control a bat and work a count makes him a strong fit up front.

I would not be surprised to see Maddon try many options at leadoff throughout the year, but Zobrist should get the first crack.

The major question with Zobrist is whether he will be the full-time second baseman again. He primarily played second base last year, hitting an impressive .272/.386/.446 during the regular season. However, Javier Baez took over the position in the post-season, causing Zobrist to move to the outfield.

Zobrist was obviously a major part of the team in October, but Kyle Schwarber and Jason Heyward will take many starts in the corner outfield if healthy. It will be extremely interesting to see how Maddon gets everybody involved. At least for the opening game, I see Maddon at second base over Baez.

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