Jon Lester's line vs. Rockies: 4 IP, 9 H, 6 R, 1 BB, 4 K, 1 HBP, 72 pitches (44 strikes). Averaged 89.5 mph with his 4-seamer (topped at 91.7). Seven swings and misses.
— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) March 24, 2019
Jon Lester has had a terrible spring and it got worse in the Cubs 11-6 loss on Saturday. Not only was he getting hit left and right, but he was topping out at 90 MPH. That's about 2-3 MPH less than a season ago. The Cubs opening day starter cannot succeed if he continues to pitch like he has this spring.
Almora keeps rolling
On the same day Almora found out his likely platoon partner in the center, Ian Happ was sent down, he went 2-for-4 and scored a run against Colorado. Almora is up to .388 this spring.
The Cubs platoon system in center field will not work in 2019. Albert Almora needs to step up and become an everyday starter. Via @CubbiesCrib #Cubs #Almora #CubbiesCrib https://t.co/8tQk8vVXZh
— Brian Thomas (@TheRealBEarley) March 19, 2019
Kris Bryant struggling at the wrong time
After a hot start to the spring, Kris Bryant's slide continued on Saturday as he went 0-for-4. That means his spring average has slipped to .211. The slide couldn't come at a worse time when it's become quite clear the Cubs are going to need lots of offense this season.
What is a reasonable expectation for Kris Bryant Comeback SZN?@TonyAndracki23 + @KingsleyEllis
— Cubs Talk (@NBCSCubs) March 22, 2019
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