Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn't Alex Bregman starting at third base for the Cubs in Game 1?
Bregman suffered multiple facial fractures after a foul ball hit him on Sept. 20 against the Reds, and manager Craig Counsell wasn't comfortable risking further damage. Although Bregman is healthy enough to hit, he'll serve as the DH instead of playing the field.
Who is starting at third base for the Cubs in Game 1 of the Wild Card series?
Rookie switch-hitter Pedro Ramirez is getting the nod at third base in place of Bregman. Ramirez has been solid defensively at the hot corner during his rookie season.
Why is Michael Conforto not in the Cubs' Game 1 lineup?
Because Bregman's injury forces him into the DH role, there's no spot in the lineup for Conforto. Counsell opted to start Ramirez at third and keep Bregman as the DH, bumping Conforto to the bench.
How did Alex Bregman perform in his return from the facial fracture injury?
Bregman avoided surgery and was back in action less than a week after getting hurt. In the regular season finale against the Red Sox, he went 4-for-4 with two home runs.
How have the Cubs hitters fared historically against Padres starter Michael King?
Bregman has been outstanding against King, going 7-for-8 in his career, while Conforto is 1-for-11 with a home run, three walks, and two strikeouts. Ian Happ has just two career at-bats against King and went hitless in both.
Aldo Soto
With a journalism degree from Eastern Illinois University and a decade of Cubs reporting, my work has appeared on 670 The Score, ESPN 1000, and the Pinwheels and Ivy Podcast. I cover Cubs news and analysis for Sports Mockery, including roster moves, game breakdowns, and prospect development.
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