In their Cactus League finale, the Chicago Cubs gave fans a glimpse of what might be their Opening Day lineup. The Cubs dominated the Milwaukee Brewers with a commanding 12-0 victory, featuring home runs from Alex Bregman and Ian Happ. This lineup is likely what manager Craig Counsell will roll out against the Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field.
A key decision for the Cubs is how they'll handle right field. With Seiya Suzuki expected to start the season on the injured list, Matt Shaw is set to step in as the primary right fielder. Here's a look at the potential lineup:
- Michael Busch, 1B
- Alex Bregman, 3B
- Ian Happ, LF
- Pete Crow-Armstrong, CF
- Nico Hoerner, 2B
- Carson Kelly, C
- Moisés Ballesteros, DH
- Dansby Swanson, SS
- Matt Shaw, RF
While the Opening Day lineup seems set, changes are on the horizon. Outfielders Michael Conforto and Dylan Carlson are expected to be on the bench. Conforto has been confirmed for the Opening Day roster, and Carlson's spring training performance likely earned him a spot as well.
Despite Shaw's relative inexperience compared to Conforto and Carlson, the Cubs are eager to give their 2023 first-round pick regular at-bats. With Suzuki out, Shaw’s role as the starting right fielder is a straightforward solution.
Once Suzuki returns, Pete Crow-Armstrong's position in the lineup might shift. Suzuki could take over as the cleanup hitter, potentially moving Crow-Armstrong down. However, Crow-Armstrong's development this season could see him challenge Ian Happ for a higher spot in the order.
Ian Happ, while the Cubs' most consistent hitter over recent years, has had his share of slumps. Yet, it looks like Counsell is starting the season with confidence in Happ, keeping him near the top.
The Cubs' lineup holds promise for a strong 2026 season, largely depending on Crow-Armstrong's performance. For now, Counsell’s lineup choices seem well-founded as they prepare for Opening Day.