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

With Hunter Brown returning soon, Mike Burrows may be the odd man out in the rotation.
Jun 10 2026 3:05am
Brody Hopkins is showing control improvements in Triple-A - could it be enough to get a shot in the majors? Plus, Judge injury fallout in NYY, rotation updates in BOS and BAL, and more.
Jun 9 2026 3:05am
We take a tour of NL West prospects with Ryan somewhere in their names and then use team-wide stats to look at why the Padres have had success while the Giants have struggled mightily.
Jun 6 2026 8:34pm
Royals closer Lucas Erceg has been a mess lately—who could the team turn to as a replacement? Plus, CHW outfield playing time outlook, hitting prospects learning new positions in CLE, the nearly-restored rotation in DET, and Royce Lewis tearing it up in Triple-A for the Twins.
Jun 4 2026 3:05am

Tools