Jon Lester jokes about tossing perfect game, hitting batters in first start vs. Cubs

Washington Nationals pitcher Jon Lester had fun-loving jokes about his former team, the Chicago Cubs, in his return to Wrigley Field on Monday.

Monday was a special day for Chicago Cubs fans, as former ace pitcher and fan favorite Jon Lester made his return to Wrigley Field. The team opted to part ways with Lester this offseason, paving way for him to sign on with the Washington Nationals.

Ahead of his return to the Windy City, Lester was asked about what it will be like facing off against his former teammates. During his answer, Lester lightheartedly joked about the potential of throwing a perfect game against the Cubs! You can check out the full quote in the video below, courtesy of Marquee Sports Network.

Cubs: Jon Lester makes his return to Chicago as a member of the Nationals

Lester approached the mound in the bottom of the first inning and received a standing ovation from the Cubs faithful in attendance. As for the prospects of a perfect game for Lester, it ended quickly on a leadoff hit by catcher Willson Contreras.

At the conclusion of the 2020 season, the Cubs declined Lester’s option for the 2021 season that would have paid him $25 million. The decision was easy from a baseball perspective, since he posted a 5.16 ERA in the truncated season, but it was difficult considering the role he played in the Cubs winning the World Series in 2016. After exploring his options on the open market, Lester signed on with the Nationals on a one-year, $5 million deal.

Entering this game, Lester had pitched in just three games due to being placed on the COVID-19 injury list at the start of the season. Through those starts, Lester recorded a 2.25 ERA, a 1.38 WHIP, 10 strikeouts and seven walks in 16.0 innings of work.

Regardless of the outcome of Monday’s game, you have to believe the reaction he will forever remember the warm welcome he received from Cubs fans.