MESA, Ariz. – Jon Lester took the first step long ago, admitting he had a problem and even telling reporters he experienced the yips way back in high school.
The Cubs can’t pretend Lester’s throws to first base aren’t an issue. Joe Maddon can’t spin it away with his storytelling and sense of humor during the manager’s daily media sessions.
The Cubs are trying to attack the problem head-on, even if it meant Lester pitching on Field 1 during Tuesday morning’s controlled scrimmage against minor-league players at Sloan Park.
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It left beat writers comparing notes on how many times – at least three – Lester’s pick-off throws to first base wound up near the chain-link fence.