Chicago Cubs Lineup (5/16/22): Miley Pitching, Simmons SS, Contreras Leads Off

Wade Miley will get his second start since being activated off the IL tonight against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The 35-year-old LHP isn’t going to overpower anyone, but his 3.37 ERA last season with the Reds at least gives us a glimmer of hope that he can be effective every five days.

The Cubs will need Miley to limit damage early and have their offense — currently ranked near the bottom of MLB — score three or more runs to give them a fighting chance. The Pirates’ offense is only averaging 3.5 runs per game, which is worse than the Cubs’ 3.9 runs per game and leaves Miley with a slim margin for error tonight if both teams play in line with those season averages.

Willson Contreras leads off as DH tonight, Seiya Suzuki is in right, Ian Happ is in left, Frank Schwindel is at first, and Yan Gomes is catching. Patrick Wisdom had a home run and a double on Sunday, he’s batting sixth playing third followed by Jonathan Villar at second, Andrelton Simmons — making his first start as a Cub — playing short, and Rafael Ortega in center.

First pitch tonight from Wrigley Field is at 6:40pm CT. The game will be broadcast on Marquee Sports Network and 670 The Score.

Here is tonight's #Cubs starting lineup at Wrigley Field! pic.twitter.com/ttzJbEHUQc

— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) May 16, 2022