Chicago Cubs Lineup (3/10/23): Madrigal Leads Off at 2B, Torrens at DH, Smyly Pitching

The Cubs just keep finding ways to win, whether it’s putting up their first-ever Cactus League no-hitter or blasting a trio of homers to erase an early deficit. It seems like this group has the same tenacity no matter who’s in the lineup, with even the backups and prospects coming up big. Friday sees them taking on the White Sox with a chance to win their 10th straight game.

Nick Madrigal will lead off at second base, followed by Ian Happ in left and Cody Bellinger in center. Eric Hosmer is the cleanup man at first, Edwin Ríos is across the diamond at third, and Luis Torrens is the DH. Mike Tauchman is in right, Zach McKinstry is the shortstop, and Tucker Barnhart is behind the dish.

Pitching for the Cubs is Drew Smyly, who was hit pretty hard in his first two starts. He’s been working on mechanical adjustments, however, and threw just fastball and cutter his last time out as he wanted to make sure he was staying behind the ball. The curve is Smyly’s best weapon by far, so it’s hard to judge much from his performance if he isn’t using it.

I have to imagine we’ll see more of a complete repertoire in this one as he gets stretched out and starts to operate with standard sequencing. Getting that hook working and maintaining the improved ride on his hard stuff will have Smyly looking much better.

First pitch from Sloan is set for 2:05pm CT on Marquee Sports Network.

Here is today's #Cubs starting lineup at @SloanParkMesa! pic.twitter.com/FpO9Ju25L3

— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) March 10, 2023