Chicago Cubs: Three things to watch in Spring Training opener

Who leads off?

We might not see anything of note on this score in the first Spring Training game. Or maybe we will. Who knows?

But one way or another, this question badly needs answering.

If the Chicago Cubs can’t get more production out of their leadoff spot, this lineup will struggle with inconsistency as it did last year.

As Joe Maddon has said before, look for Ben Zobrist to get the first crack at the leadoff spot. And whether we see him there today or not (or whether he even plays), keep an eye on his approach, his swing and whether he seems healthy. That last part might be paramount where he’s concerned.

And if Zobrist can’t cut it, can they find someone on this roster who can? Would they try someone like Ian Happ or Kyle Schwarber (groan) at leadoff?

No matter who hits leadoff today, check out how many pitches they’re taking (and how they take them). And when they get in a decent hitter’s count, are they attacking their pitch and making good contact?

These might seem like little, obvious things, and they probably are. But after watching a lot of bad at-bats from Chicago Cubs leadoff hitters, any signs of improvement are welcome.