Cubs replace Javier Baez with Nico Hoerner in new-look lineup

The Chicago Cubs are changing things up by having Nico Hoerner bat leadoff while also filling in for Javy Baez at shortstop.

The Cubs will start their series off against Atlanta on Monday night with a lineup change.

Say hello to Nico Hoerner as Chicago’s leadoff man.

The 24-year-old will make his second start of the season with plenty of expectations built up.

Hoerner has made a huge impression in a short amount of time. He was called up on Apr. 22 and has already delivered promising moments, like his savvy double-play against the Brewers.

It’s just unfortunate that Hoerner’s involvement is largely the result of injury. Javy Baez is getting a rest day because he tweaked his hamstring against the Brewers. Hopefully, it’s just a minor thing, but you never know.

Nico Hoerner has been a ray of hope for the Cubs since being called up

Hoerner batting lead-off is a silver lining Cubs fans will be eager to see in any case.

This hasn’t been a strong start to the season for Chicago. While the team found a groove with five wins in six since Apr. 17, they lost two straight to Milwaukee over the weekend.

The series with Atlanta is another chance to find some positive momentum.

The Cubs won’t want to put too much on Hoerner’s shoulders. Last year in 48 games, he batted .222 and didn’t do enough to guarantee a role going into 2021. However, he had a bright spring, so it was a bit of a surprise when Chicago optioned him to their alternate site ahead of the season.

This year, Hoerner has been hot. In four games, he’s batting .444 with an OBP of .615. He has four hits in nine at-bats.

The goal for Hoerner is to stay up and prove himself as valuable cover at second base and shortstop, if nothing else. So far, he’s been more than that.