Cubs Reveal First Starting Lineup of Spring Training

Spring Training is heating up with the start of games on Friday, although most teams won't take the field until Saturday. That's when the Chicago Cubs will host the San Francisco Giants in the first spring game for both teams.

While some teams are using these games to give prospects and fringe players a chance, the Cubs are going with what could end up being their Opening Day starting nine.

Cubs Spring Training Lineup

Manager David Ross will send team ace Marcus Stroman to the bump with Yan Gomes catching him behind the plate.

While it's currently unclear what order Chicago's hitters will bat in, Ross at least revealed who will be manning each position. Four-time Gold Glover Eric Hosmer will be at first, Nico Hoerner will play second and new free-agent signing Dansby Swanson will man shortstop. Slugging late bloomer Patrick Wisdom will be at third to round out the infield.

In the outfield, Ross will play Ian Happ in left, 2019 NL MVP Cody Bellinger in center and Seiya Suzuki in right. Trey Mancini will DH.

Overall, this looks like a pretty good starting group with power and defense all over the diamond. After winning only 74 games last year, the Cubs appear to be in much better shape this year and should be able to flirt with a winning season.