Chicago Cubs Lineup (9/2/24): Standard Order, Taillon Starting

This feels like a series that could go one of two ways depending on whether the Cardinals decide to stand up and fight or lay down and die. The Cubs swept their opponents in Pittsburgh last week behind a deluge of offense, with the first contest setting the stage for what was to come. Jameson Taillon wasn’t really on his game, allowing four earned runs on eight hits with just three strikeouts, but he gave the Cubs length by recording 20 outs.

It helped that they pounced on Pirate pitching with a snowman in the top of the 6th, giving Taillon plenty of margin for error. More of the same would be nice whether he’s sharp or not. The lineup is the same as what we’ve grown used to barring a day off or a matchup move, with Ian Happ leading off in left and Michael Busch playing first. Seiya Suzuki is the DH, Cody Bellinger is in right, Isaac Paredes is at third, and Nico Hoerner is at second. Dansby Swanson is the shortstop, Pete Crow-Armstrong is in center, and Miguel Amaya is behind the plate.

They’re facing rookie righty Jared Jones for the second time in a week and fourth time this season, so the level of familiarity is high. That’s not a good thing for Jones, who surrendered five earned runs over four innings in his return from the IL. His control was spotty and he ended up grooving several pitches in addition to three walks, so he should be more on his game tonight.

Then again, just about every pitcher is throwing beach balls against the Cubs lately. Unless Jones pitches the best game of his young career, this feels like a great opportunity to extend the win streak. First pitch is at 6:40pm CT on Marquee and 670 The Score.

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— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) September 2, 2024