Cubs Release Lineup for Spring Training Opener as David Ross Sits Out With Flu

The Chicago Cubs are all set for their Spring Training opener Saturday night, but a very important leader will be sitting this one out.

By any metric, the first lineup of the year is stacked with talent, and features a potential preview of what is to come in 2020 when the competition counts.

Tonight’s Cubs 9:

Bryant 3B
Rizzo 1B
Baez SS
Heyward RF
Contreras C
Kipnis 2B
Souza LF
Bote DH
Almora CF

SP: Mills
— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) February 22, 2020

Kris Bryant begins his role as the leadoff hitte,r and Jason Kipnis gets the first start at second base. Fans also get a preview of all the power at the top of the lineup for a Cubs team that returns much of its talent in 2020.

The notable absence Saturday will be manager David Ross; he is staying home with the flu.

Bench coach Andy Green will manage tonight’s Cactus League opener. David Ross showed up with flu-like symptoms and was allowed to head home to rest.
— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) February 22, 2020

Getting sick at Spring Training is less than ideal. Keeping Ross out of the dugout is a smart move so he doesn't get his players sick and cause a catastrophe in February.

The Cubs are seeking a fresh start under Ross in 2020, and what matters is how he does in the regular season. The best course of action now is for him to have some soup and just watch the game on TV.