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

Using BaseballHQ's exclusive Playing Time Metrics to examine usage trends across the NL East.
May 14 2026 11:17am
Isaac Collins has struggled vs. LHP, and it might be time for the Royals to give Jac Caglianone another shot at everyday at-bats. Plus, Sam Antonacci's rise in CHW, Angel Martínez's platoon splits in CLE, an opportunity for Matt Vierling in DET, and why the Twins won't play Ryan Jeffers more.
May 14 2026 3:06am
Vaughn Grissom and Oswald Peraza are forcing the issue to change the platoon situation in Anaheim.
May 13 2026 3:05am
Cedric Mullins' struggles are cutting into his PA totals - could a loss of his job be next? Plus, more looks at how current trends are affecting our Playing Time metrics from around the AL East.
May 12 2026 3:05am
This week, we assess the playing time outlook for three NL West call-ups, and make the argument for two more AAA reinforcements on the horizon.
May 9 2026 3:06am

Tools