MESA, Ariz. – The Cubs’ first three starters are set for their opening series against the Brewers this week, after manager David Ross announced Monday that lefty Justin Steele would start Game 2 and right-hander Marcus Stroman Game 3.
Ross declined to explain his decision, but it made sense for a couple reasons. Stroman and Kyle Hendricks, the Opening Day starter, are still the leaders of the rotation. But pitching Steele in between Hendricks and Stroman separates the pair of crafty right-handers.
