DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL Central—Two platoon-happy Cubs

Chicago Cubs

Though the Cubs have not excelled when a facing a right-handed starter (13-15 record heading into the weekend), it hasn’t stopped them from committing to strict platoon situations in LF and CF in the early going. And both David DeJesus (OF, CHC) and Nate Schierholtz (OF, CHC) have produced better-than-expected results from facing mostly opposite-side pitching.

DeJesus has only 17 plate appearances against LHP, and he’s 2-for-15 with a walk and a HBP. But against RHP? He’s raked to .312/.380/.569 in 121 plate appearances with 5 HR and 11 doubles. Overall, his stats are a fine .290/.362/.516, and the resulting .878 OPS is a career high.

Similarly, Schierholtz is 2-for-11 against southpaws, but has hit .300/.340/.560 with 4 HR...

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

The Angels have a 4-way battle for closer in spring training.
Feb 25 2026 3:06am
Marcelo Mayer's chances of breaking camp with the Red Sox may not be as strong as previously thought. Plus, Okamoto's role in TOR, early spring standouts, and more from around the AL East.
Feb 24 2026 3:03am
The Mets metamorphosis has many moving parts, not least at the infield corners. Plus: Wheeler at PHI; House at WAS; C at ATL and MIA; more.
Feb 23 2026 8:45am
While the NL West has plenty of star power that usually claims fans' attention, there are still interesting position battles to be won in the spring. Here some to be watching for.
Feb 21 2026 3:03am
McLain struggled to regain his 2023 form coming back from injury in 2025. Can he find that level again in 2026?
Feb 20 2026 3:30am

Tools