PT TOMORROW: NL Central—Long-term takeaways from opening weekend

Chicago Cubs

The Cubs stated outright that Joc Pederson (OF, CHC) would be an everyday player for them when he signed a one-year contract this offseason. Through three games, the team has lived up to their word, starting Pederson against Tyler Anderson (LHP, PIT) on Saturday. Perhaps somewhat surprisingly, the team took the opposite approach with Ian Happ (OF, CHC), opting to start Jake Marisnick (OF, CHC) in his place with the southpaw on the mound. It’s possible the Happ benching was only a short-term move, though it would offset some of the extra volume he receives as the team’s leadoff hitter.

After attempting only 0.55 stolen bases per game last season, the Cubs were aggressive on the basepaths against Pittsburgh. While it may have...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

This week, we consider the AAA revolution happening in San Diego, welcome the return of a long-injured veteran in LA, and check in on how some of the young guys of the NL West are performing.
Jun 20 2026 3:06am
The Cubs are looking for offense, could Matt Shaw in right field provide an answer?
Jun 19 2026 3:05am
Could Tigers prospect Max Clark make his MLB debut sometime soon? Plus, Kyle Teel and Shane Smith timelines in Chicago, CLE 3B depth in the wake of the J-Ram injury, Michael Massey looking up in KC, and pitching returns on the horizon in MIN.
Jun 18 2026 3:05am
Lawrence Butler is starting to hit and that's leading to more playing time in Sacramento.
Jun 17 2026 3:08am
If the Mets hope to emulate the Knicks' success in ending their championship drought, they'll need more--much more--out of 1B. Plus: RF in PHI; C in WAS and ATL; RP/SP in WAS; more.
Jun 16 2026 3:11am

Tools